If you have explored the softer side of yoga, you have probably encountered gentle, yin, and restorative yoga. But there’s often confusion around the differences between these three approaches, and not just for students, for teachers as well! While they can be combined in one class to great effect, understanding their goals and the differences between the three styles will help students and teachers alike.
In this video, I break down the three using a trio of terms from exercise physiology: frequency, duration, and intensity.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
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I’d love to train you how to teach these styles (and many others)!
Check out my continuing education courses for yoga teachers at Comfort Zone Yoga.
Specifically:
- Teaching Yin Yoga
- Teaching Restorative Yoga
- Teaching Gentle Yoga is coming in 2027
Try it before you teach it
Grab The 20-Minute Yin Sequence—three yin shapes with the setup, the cue into each one, and exactly what to say (and not say) at minute two. Free, and ready to teach in your next class.
