Hatha vs Vinyasa: What's the Difference?
- mariefryman6
- Oct 27
- 3 min read
Not all yoga classes are created equal - and that’s the beauty of it. At Marpole Retreats, we offer a variety of all yoga styles as introduced in our recent blog post ‘Which Style of Yoga is Best for You?’
Today we are going to introduce two of the most loved Yoga Styles a bit more in-depth: Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga. They both come from the same roots and often get mixed up, but offer very different experiences on the mat.
Whether you’re in the mood to move and energise, or slow down and centre yourself, understanding the unique feel of these practices can help you choose the right class for your body and your day. Let’s take a closer look.
First Things First: Both, Hatha and Vinyasa, Are Great Starting Points
Let’s begin with the good news - you can’t really go wrong. Both Hatha and Vinyasa are beautiful, mindful practices that connect movement with breath and help you tune into your body. They just offer different experiences on the mat.
What is Hatha Yoga?
Hatha Yoga is a deeply grounding, breath-led practice that focuses on balance - within the body, and within the self. This class is slower-paced than Vinyasa, with more time to hold postures and drop into stillness. You’ll explore a mix of static poses, breathwork (pranayama), and meditation, all designed to help you cultivate awareness, patience, and presence.
Rather than flowing quickly from one movement to the next, Hatha gives you time to feel into each pose, find alignment, and build strength and resilience - both physically and mentally. You might be surprised by how challenging it can be to hold a pose and stay connected to your breath... and how calm you feel afterwards.
What to expect in a Hatha class at Marpole Retreats:
Slower, intentional movement with longer holds
A blend of physical postures, breathwork, and meditation
A calm, mindful atmosphere with time to explore and reflect
Encouragement to tune in, breathe deeply, and find your own edge
Ideal if you’re new to yoga, seeking inner balance, or simply want a more meditative and steady-paced practice.
Join us for Hatha Yoga In Edinburgh:
Thursdays at 4:30–5:15pm
Saturdays at 10:15–11:15am
What is Vinyasa Yoga?
Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic, breath-driven style that links movement with intention. Each class is a rhythmic journey - moving fluidly from one posture to the next, guided by the inhale and exhale. You’ll build heat, increase flexibility, and strengthen your whole body, all while cultivating presence and awareness.
This style reflects the natural flow of energy through the body, with sequences that blend strength, softness, and spaciousness. Expect to feel energised, open, and more connected to yourself by the end of class. We also carve out moments of stillness within the flow, offering time to breathe, reset, and come back to centre.
What to expect in a Vinyasa class at Marpole Retreats:
Flowing sequences that link breath and movement
A balance of strength, stretch, and softness
Breath awareness and mindfulness throughout
A dynamic, energising atmosphere that supports all levels
Ideal if you enjoy creative movement, want to build strength and flexibility, or simply love the feeling of moving in sync with your breath.
Join us for Vinyasa Flow Yoga Classes In Edinburgh:
Sundays at 1:15–2:15pm
Pricing that Fits Your Flow
Each of our mat-based classes is just £18, with no commitment required - perfect if you want to drop in whenever it suits you. If you're planning to practice more regularly, our 10-class pack brings the cost down to just £12 per class, giving you flexibility and great value. Whether you’re flowing once a week or finding your rhythm more often, we’ve got an option that fits.
Ready to move with us? Book your Leith Yoga In Edinburgh class now and we’ll see you on the mat!
A Warm Welcome Awaits
At Marpole Retreats, we believe yoga is for every body and every kind of day. Whether you’re stepping into your first class or deepening your existing practice, we’re here to support you with thoughtful guidance, friendly faces, and a space where you can simply be yourself.
See you on the mat soon!
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