Gentle Yoga vs. Yin vs. Restorative Yoga

Which Class Is Right for You?

If you've ever looked at a yoga class schedule and wondered what the difference is between Gentle Hatha, Yin, and Restorative Yoga, you're not alone.

All three can be slower-paced than a vigorous Vinyasa class. All three may use props. And all three can leave you feeling a little different than when you walked in. But they're not interchangeable.

Here's a simple guide to help you decide which practice might be right for you.

Gentle Yoga

Gentle yoga is generally the most movement-oriented of the three.

You'll move through a series of postures, but the pace is slower and the intensity is typically lower than a strong Hatha or Vinyasa practice. A gentle Yoga class may include:

• Standing and seated postures

• Mobility work

• Balance

• Stretching

• Breath awareness

• Gentle strengthening

• Longer pauses

Try Gentle Yoga if: you want to move your body without a high-intensity workout or you're looking for an approachable place to begin.

Yin Yoga

Yin is a quieter yoga practice characterized by longer-held postures. Rather than actively contracting muscles throughout a pose, Yin generally invites you to settle into a shape and remain there for several minutes. You'll often use props to find an appropriate position, but unlike restorative yoga, Yin isn't necessarily about completely eliminating sensation or muscular effort.

Try Yin if: you're interested in slowing down, spending more time in individual postures, and exploring stillness and sensation.

Restorative Yoga

Restorative yoga takes support even further. The intention is to use props - often generously - so that your body can settle into a posture with very little muscular effort. The practice may include fewer poses, held for longer periods.

Try Restorative yoga if: your body and mind are asking for rest, support, quiet, and a break from constantly doing.

So Which One Should You Choose?

It depends on what you need that day.

If you're looking for... Maximum support consider Restorative (We have a very special class in the Breathing Room studio called Restorative Yin - it’s a delicious fusion of a restorative practice with the deep and long held stretches of yin. It’s taught twice a week - check our class schedule for the next opportunity to give it a try!.)

If you're looking for... A slower introduction to yoga consider Gentle Yoga or Restorative (Look for Gentle Hatha on our class schedule… it’s a wonderful way to begin a brand new yoga practice, or to return to practice after a time away.)

If you're looking for... nervous-system regulation consider Restorative. (Our Tuesday evening Restorative Yoga class is taught from a functional approach; using supportive props and individualized variations to help you truly rest, release, and reset.)

The truth is, Your yoga practice can (and most likely will) change from week to week, season to season, and even day to day.

Try gentle yoga, yin yoga, and restorative yoga in our Hillsboro studio

Our Hillsboro studio schedule includes opportunities for Gentle, Yin, Restorative, Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, meditation, and more because we believe a well-rounded practice includes both yin and yang - effort and ease, strength and softness, movement and stillness.

Check the current class schedule and come try something new.

If you need help choosing a class, text the studio at 503-609-0296 - we’ll be happy to help you discover your next favorite yoga class.