The term "Vinyasa" means "to arrange something in a special way." In our case, yoga positions.
In Vinyasa Yoga sessions, the movements are harmonized with the breathing to move smoothly from one posture to another. Vinyasa Flow refers to the way in which this style of yoga "flows" from one asana to another, linking each position to an inspiration and an expiration. It is a continuous sequence, like a dance, that helps you to be present throughout it. Vinyasa increases flexibility and endurance, calming the mind and improving mood.
Within the Vinyasa school there are various styles, which correspond to different levels of intensity and dynamism. Ashtanga, Baptiste Yoga, Jivamukti, Power Yoga and Prana Flow are part of the Vinyasa Yoga family.
Here are 6 things you should know about Vinyasa:
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Provides diversity and creativity
One of the main features of Vinyasa Yoga is its diversity. There is no single philosophy or strict sequence of positions that you must respect, as there is room for exploration. Each instructor creates their own sequence of positions, so when you go to a Vinyasa Yoga session, be prepared to be surprised. A Vinyasa session can include, depending on the instructor, different styles of yoga, a playlist with themed songs or relaxing sounds from nature. If you like creativity in movements and you want to discover new facets of yoga practice, it is definitely a style to try.
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Posture matters
The rhythm of Vinyasa practice tends to be faster than other types of yoga, but this does not mean that the movements are uncontrolled, at random. Regardless of the speed at which you practice Vinyasa Yoga, the correct posture is especially important. Although moving from one position to another is dynamic, maintaining proper body alignment throughout the session matters a lot. It is better to move more slowly, but consciously, than to hurry, and your practice to be careless.
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Breathing is essential
Any type of yoga focuses on breathing - a basic point in Vinyasa Flow, where it must be harmonized with the movements. Breathing is the guide for physical practice, ensuring the connection between mind and body. Thus, when your breathing becomes jerky and tiring or when you start to hold your breath during more difficult positions, you know that you need to slow down.
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It also suits beginners
Due to the diversity of positions, Vinyasa Flow can also be practiced by beginners in yoga, regardless of age, flexibility, or body shape. This style is a great way to train your physical skills and build the foundation for an advanced yoga practice. There are many options and positions to experiment with, so you will definitely find something to your liking. Like other yoga styles, Vinyasa Flow is about listening to your body and respecting its needs. You can easily use auxiliary accessories, which give you support and extra safety to make the right movements.
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It is okay to slow down
When you are unsure about a posture or transition, give yourself time and patience. Move more slowly, more consciously. At Vinyasa Flow you can slow down or increase the pace depending on your current state, you can rest in Child's Pose, for example, or vary a certain posture.
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It can be a demanding workout
Traditionally, Vinyasa refers to the passage Plank - Chaturanga - Up Dog - Down Dog, a sequence often repeated in the practice of Vinyasa Flow. When performed at an alert tempo, with an anatomically correct alignment, it is a physically demanding sequence.
While some yoga schools offer slow movements and intense stretches, Vinyasa Flow is more like a strength workout and less like a stretching session. Although it seems light and relaxing, the practice of Vinyasa Flow can test your physical limits at a faster pace, through the succession of asanas without interruption.
However, don't forget that yoga is more than fitness. The main practice is mental.
Synchronizing body dynamics with breathing, taming and calming the mind, moving with grace and intention - these are the real challenges of Vinyasa Flow. An active meditation, a "flirtation" between effort and ease.
With the right instructors you will quickly fall in love with the practice of Vinyasa Flow. At Hot Yoga Romania you can choose to practice Vinyasa Flow with Svetlana and Clara, both with a passion and vast experience for this type of yoga, internationally certified and diligent practitioners.
Trust and let yourself be carried away by the flow at Hot Yoga Romania!
All our classes are held online, via zoom, as per current situation.
Source:
- https://www.doyouyoga.com/15-things-you-need-to-know-about-vinyasa-flow-37373/
- https://www.yogajournal.com/yoga-101/types-of-yoga/vinyasa-yoga
- https://www.doyouyoga.com/7-reasons-to-practice-vinyasa-yoga/
- https://www.verywellfit.com/introduction-to-vinyasa-flow-yoga-4143120