At a glance

Classic yoga is a holistic traditional yogic path that includes disciplines, personal observance, breathing, body postures and meditation. It emphasizes the link between breath, body and mind, as well as the detachment of the inner world from the outer world.

Hatha yoga is traditionally the preparatory stage for higher meditation, and is based on asana and breathing techniques. Hatha yoga became popular in the second half of 20th century, but many people focus more on its physical aspects rather than the meditation.

Hot yoga refers to yoga exercises performed under hot and humid conditions. Some people believe hot yoga can replicate the heat and humidity of India where yoga originated, and the heat can help increase a yogi's flexibility and energy flow in body poses.