Hatha yoga is the most well known branch in the West, perhaps because of the primacy of the physical body in our worldview. It integrates and balances our anatomical, physiological, energetic, rational and emotional selves. One possible explanation of the term hatha is sun moon (Ha=sun, Tha=moon), another wilful force. The differences here are also in emphasis, focusing on the alignment of the body, coordination of breath and movement or flow from one pose to another. The Iyengar style is known for great attention to detail and precise alignment, but also in using props such as blocks and belts). Integral yoga puts as much attention on the science of the breath (pranayama) and meditation as they do on postures. The Sivananda school adopts a similar approach. Bikram yoga, or Hot yoga, in which you perform a series of 26 postures in a preheated (40 degrees) room. Vinni yoga, a gentle practice where postures are synchronised with the breath in sequences determined by the need of the practitioner. Ashtanga, based on six series of postures (called also 'asana' in Sanskrit) developed by K. Pattabhi Jois is more physically demanding; it is a style where jumps, a specific breath (Ujjayi) and attention on the gaze are used, building strength and flexibility. The so-called Power yoga is based on the Ashtanga series.

These are just a few of the styles that you can find in yoga studios or gyms. No style is better than another, it is simply a matter of personal preference. The best is to try a few different classes and to stick with your favorite style. No words replace personal experience!