Table 2.

Factors to consider in choosing a yoga class

DIFFERENTIAL CLASS FACTORS	VARIATIONS
Temperature of the room	Heat of the room between 90 and 104 degrees F Heat of the room between 75 to 80 degrees F
Fixed vs. variable sequences	Repetition of same poses in same order each class Sequence of poses varies
Pace of movement in and out of poses and between poses	Poses may change with each inhale and exhale Poses may be held for between 5 breaths to one minute Combination of repetition in and out of the pose, then holding the pose for several breaths
Use of props to make poses more accessible and supported	Block, strap Blanket, bolster Chair, wall
Use of augmenting yoga practices	Bandha (energy locks) Kriya (purification) Mudra (gesture, seal, or attitude)
Use of more regulated or vigorous breathing practices	Nadhi shodhana (alternate nostril) Kapalabhati (skull shining/bellow) Krama (inhale and/or exhale in segments) Bramuri (bumble bee) Ratio - regulate individual components of inhale, retain after inhale, exhale, suspend after exhale
Meditation	Guided visualization Focus on breath Witnessing thoughts Mantra japa (silent repetition of a meaningful sound or phrase)
Spirituality	Kirtan (devotional chanting) Mantra japa Connection with the divine or a higher power