Turns out that Yoga isn't just about being bendy

Before I started practicing yoga in earnest I used to think of it as a way to stretch and maybe show off the ability to take some crazy bendy shapes. You can totally approach yoga in this way.

Many do. They love it and don't need to take anything more from the practice.

However, they are missing so much of what it has to offer. In fact, yoga is a full-on emotional self-awareness and self-management system. Fully formed and there, available at our local leisure centre or at the click of a mouse—as long as we know how to make best use of it.

Yoga is a strategic arsenal of tools and strategies for managing our bodies, our nervous system and our minds. For noticing, decoding and integrating emotions, understanding our reaction patterns, and developing resilience.

As a starting position if you're new to yoga, here are some of the yoga styles I use and recommend to others I coach. Each serve specific goals and I may choose a different style at a different time on purpose to suit.

1. Hatha Yoga: Cultivate Balance and Mindfulness

For beginners, Hatha yoga is a fantastic starting point. It emphasises fundamental poses and breath control at a relaxed pace. This isn’t just about bending into the perfect posture; it’s about finding balance in your strength and flexibility while calming the mind. Hatha serves as a gentle nudge towards mindfulness, helping you to align your body and thoughts—essential traits when you need to support and guide others through challenges.

2. Vinyasa Yoga: Energise and Build Endurance

For those looking for a bit more movement, Vinyasa could be just the thing. This style flows from one pose to another, perfectly linking breath with movement. It’s fantastic for increasing energy and endurance, especially when you need a bit of a boost. Vinyasa isn’t just a workout; it fosters resilience through intentional sequences that develop your ability to think on your feet. This practice prepares you to handle stressful situations with confidence while improving how you show up for those around you.

3. Yin Yoga: Embrace Stillness and Deep Stretching

If you’re seeking a more introspective approach, Yin yoga is ideal. It targets deep connective tissues through long-held, passive poses and emphasises stillness—a perfect counterbalance to a hectic lifestyle. Yin yoga helps to down-regulate the nervous system, ease tension, and encourage introspection. This gentle practice promotes self-discovery and equips leaders with the tools to maintain composure and clarity, even in challenging times.

4. Restorative Yoga: Nourish and Restore

When you need true relaxation, restorative yoga should be on your radar. This gentle, calming practice focuses on complete relaxation, using props to support your body in restful poses. It invites you to recharge and recover, providing a much-needed space for self-care. For leaders, this practice is invaluable; it enables you to replenish your energy so you can genuinely show up for your team when they need it the most.

5. Ashtanga Yoga: Structure and Consistency

For those who thrive on routine, Ashtanga yoga offers a structured sequence of postures that promotes discipline and consistency. This style builds strength, flexibility, and mental fortitude. Engaging with Ashtanga reinforces commitment and focus—both essential qualities for effective leadership. Practising this style helps establish a routine that brings structure to your life, allowing you to manage your responsibilities while being present for others.

Incorporating yoga into your life with intention can deepen your understanding of both your body and mind. When you align your chosen class with your current needs—whether they are to move the body, balance strength and flexibility, or regulate your energy—you create a more responsive approach to daily life and work. Through yoga, you uncover not just physical benefits, but also a rich system of emotional intelligence that enhances your ability to lead others with clarity and purpose, even when the going gets tough.