Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa Yoga: The Flow of Breath and Movement

Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic and fluid style of yoga that is characterized by stringing postures together so that you move from one to another, seamlessly, using the breath. It is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the West.

Core Philosophy

The word "Vinyasa" can be translated as "to place in a special way." In Vinyasa yoga, this refers to the intelligent sequencing of poses and the synchronization of movement with breath. The practice becomes a "flow," a moving meditation. Unlike Ashtanga, where the sequence is fixed, Vinyasa allows for creative and varied sequences.

What to Expect in a Class

• Breath-Synchronized Movement: Every movement is linked to either an inhale or an exhale.
• Creative Sequencing: No two classes are ever exactly alike. Teachers have the freedom to create their own sequences.
• Flow and Transition: The emphasis is not just on the poses themselves, but on the transitions between them.
• Cardiovascular Element: A Vinyasa class can be a vigorous cardiovascular workout.

Key Poses

• Sun Salutations A and B are the foundation.
• Plank, Chaturanga, Upward-Facing Dog, and Downward-Facing Dog are the core components of the "vinyasa" that links other poses together.
• Any and all yoga poses can be incorporated into a Vinyasa flow. Common examples include the Warrior series, Triangle, Chair Pose, and various balancing postures.