types of yoga The umbrella term for most types of yoga practiced in the western hemisphere, Hatha yoga, encompasses varieties such as vinyasa, power and restorative yoga. No matter which type of yoga you practice, the poses – along with controlled breathing – are a core component of each session. Unless otherwise instructed, inhale as you stretch or open the body, and exhale as you contract the body. When holding yoga poses, breathe normally; don't hold your breath. A number of poses cross over through each subset of Hatha yoga , making them the most basic and commonly practiced poses in this gentle type of exercise.