Over the years of my teaching journey in scenic places like California, Bali, Costa Rica and Mexico, I’ve had the privilege of guiding many of you through different paths of yoga. One question that often arises from both newcomers and seasoned practitioners is: “Which style of yoga is right for me?” Today, I’d love to share my personal insights into three yoga styles close to my heart—Vinyasa, Yin, and Restorative.
Vinyasa: The Dance of Breath and Movement
My Journey: I fell in love with Vinyasa during my early years of practice, after the birth of my daughters Trinity and Alexandra. It felt like a dance where breath, body, and spirit flowed seamlessly from one pose to the next. Vinyasa, for me, is a canvas of exploration—it has room for creativity, fluidity, and the kind of dynamism that can leave you feeling invigorated.
Why I Teach It: Vinyasa is all about the flow. In my classes, I aim to take you on a rhythmic journey, often accompanied by music, where you’ll find a unique blend of strength and grace. There’s a sense of freedom in not knowing which pose might come next, allowing us to be present in each transitional moment.
Who It Resonates With: If you love variety and the idea of harmonizing breath with movement, Vinyasa will feel like home to you.
Yin Yoga: The Quiet Introspection
My Journey: I discovered Yin as a complement to my more dynamic practices. The stillness was initially challenging, but over time, I realized it was a doorway to deep self-discovery.
Why I Teach It: Yin offers us the gift of time—time to sink deeply into our connective tissues, and time to turn our focus inward. I often incorporate meditative techniques in my Yin classes, making them a sanctuary for mindfulness.
Who It Resonates With: If you’re looking to deepen your flexibility and cultivate a meditative mind, then my Yin classes will offer you that quiet refuge.
Restorative Yoga: The Deep Dive into Relaxation
My Journey: In the hustle and bustle of life, Restorative Yoga became my oasis of peace. It was during the stressful period after Baby Rafa’s birth that I found the incredible healing powers of this practice.
Why I Teach It: Restorative Yoga gives us permission to do less and receive more. In my classes, you’ll find a safe and nurturing environment where props support you fully, allowing your body and mind to release deeply ingrained tensions.
Who It Resonates With: If you’re recovering from an injury, experiencing stress, or simply craving deep relaxation, then Restorative Yoga is the nurturing hug you’ve been looking for.
Final Thoughts
Each of these styles brings its unique flavor to the rich tapestry of yoga. I’ve woven elements of Vinyasa, Yin, and Restorative into my own practice and teachings because they offer diverse yet complementary avenues for exploration. Whether you join me in the fluid dance of Vinyasa, the introspective stillness of Yin, or the nurturing calm of Restorative Yoga, know that my ultimate aim is to guide you home—to yourself.
With love and light,
Julianne
