What is Yoga?

A Practice of Transformation That Unites Body, Mind, and Spirit

More than movement, yoga is a rich tradition of wisdom and self-discovery. Learn how its philosophies and practices apply to modern life.

Overview

Whether you’re new to yoga or looking to deepen your understanding, you’re in the right place.

Yoga is more than an individual practice—it’s a path to connection, shared knowledge, community care, and global well-being.

Yoga’s Origins

A Timeless Tradition

Yoga’s history spans thousands of years, with roots in ancient Indian and Kemet civilizations. Beginning as a spiritual discipline passed down through generations, it has evolved into different practices and philosophies.

The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning “to unite” or join. This concept of unity lies at the heart of yoga, bringing together the body, mind, and spirit.

Modern Yoga

Ancient Practice,
Modern World

Your yoga practice can take many forms. From movement, breathwork, singing, volunteering, studying ancient wisdom, meditating, and connecting to something bigger than yourself.

Yoga can also be more than a personal practice—it is a powerful tool for collective well-being. As the practice evolves, it continues to address societal challenges and create space for equity, healing, and transformation.

Evolving with Purpose

We at Yoga Alliance strive to honor yoga’s origins while embracing its evolution and upholding its deeper purpose—a practice of service, connection, and empowerment for individuals and communities alike.

What a powerful practice that can be used for causing “good trouble,” as activist John Lewis used to say.”

Source: Haberkorn, J. (2020, July 17). John Lewis, civil rights icon and longtime congressman, dies. Los Angeles Times.

Creating Your Practice

Finding Your Practice

At Yoga Alliance, we embrace a wide variety of approaches to yoga. Our directories recognize the following descriptions to categorize the different types of yoga when you are searching for a teacher or a school.

Gentle Yoga

Focuses on support and relaxation, often using aids like blocks to support students with their practice.

Also sometimes called “restorative” and/or “yin” yoga.

Spiritually-Oriented Classes

Combines movement with meditation, often emphasizing yoga philosophy, singing, or cultivating spiritual growth.

Flow Yoga

A dynamic physical practice with continuous movement.

Also sometimes called “vinyasa.”

Alignment-Oriented Yoga

Emphasizes precision of body placement and posture, often using aids to support body alignment.

Also sometimes called “Ashtanga Yoga.”

Fitness Yoga

Focused on the physicality of yoga to build strength, stamina, and conditioning.

Hot Yoga

Held in a heated room up to 110 F, classes range from restorative to challenging.

Specialty Yoga

Designed for specific needs (differently-abled) or groups (pregnant people). Specialized training is required to teach these classes.

In addition to the types of yoga identified above, it is common for a yoga teacher or yoga school to identify with a style, tradition, or lineage.

Each approach has benefits, and there is no “right way” to practice yoga. However, it’s important to honor the roots of yoga and respect its cultural and spiritual significance while adapting it to meet your needs.

Use our directories to find a teacher or school that aligns with your goals.

Take the Next Step

Be Part of Yoga’s Evolving Story

Learning about yoga’s history is just the beginning. Ready to deepen your journey?

Explore yoga’s benefits for body, mind, and community.

Explore yoga’s benefits

Connect with credentialed teachers or schools to guide your path.

credentialed teachers

Schools

Discover membership benefits that support your growth.

Discover membership benefits

Your yoga journey starts here—let’s move forward together.