I sometimes like to categorize yoga poses according to the effect they have on me, for example:
Standing poses – strengthening, fierce (in the Bey way)
Inversions – energizing (except, when you’ve been practicing a long time and headstand and shoulderstand are put in a restorative sequence in an advanced Iyengar Yoga class – I was surprised!)
Backbends – stimulating (like a cup of coffee)
Forward folds – cooling, soothing
Balance poses – you have to be strong and aligned in your body, and this will teach you… Errrr… balance
So, if I need some energizing in my life, I will backbend.
If I need some chillaxing, I will do some forward folds or restorative yoga (grounded poses on props on the floor, where all your limbs are supported).