Vinyasa yoga, a derivative of Ashtanga Yoga
Vinyasa Yoga , also known as " flow yoga ", is called " dynamic ". In fact, it comes from Ashtanga Yoga and is composed of undefined series. The postures are in rhythm with the breathing and the transitions are fluid. The asanas are chosen by the yogis and you work one side of the body then the other in order to balance it. Breath and movement being intimately linked, this increases body temperature and allows, like all dynamic yogas, a detoxification of the body.
What does “Vinyasa Yoga” mean?
In Sanskrit, the term " vinyasa " is composed of " nyasa " which means "to place" and " vi " which means "in a specific way". This corresponds to the synchronization of movement with breathing and this is what creates dynamism.
What is the origin of Vinyasa Yoga?
Vinyasa yoga comes from Ashtanga yoga , which consists of performing a series of postures in a very specific order. The difference lies in the sequence. Indeed, Vinyasa is free and more creative, because it does not impose any sequence . The sequences are the result of the experience acquired by the teacher and are adaptable to the needs of each individual.
The main principles of Vinyasa Yoga
The main principles of Vinyasa are:
- A derivative of Ashtanga Yoga, less rigorous and more creative, where series are not imposed,
- A dynamic yoga, often with music,
- Postures that change regularly,
- A more accessible and less intimidating form of yoga,
- A unique and different course every time.
Who is Vinyasa Yoga for?
Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic and rather physical yoga , it is aimed at people with an intermediate level of yoga . If you are a beginner, you can first sign up for a gentle yoga class like Hatha which will give you the basics. If you have good endurance, you can easily sign up directly for a Vinyasa session . It will also be perfect for people who want to tone up and who do not like routine.
How does a Vinyasa Yoga class take place?
Vinyasa yoga classes are not fixed and there is no mandatory framework to follow, which allows for great creativity. It is a dynamic and fluid yoga at the same time. The sessions will depend on your teacher, their energy, but also their observation of the needs of the group of students.
However, the course may be composed as follows:
- A warm-up starting with sun salutations ,
- A series of standing postures and a sequence of sitting positions , each connected by transitions ,
- A series of lying asanas ,
- A final relaxation .
What is the ideal equipment for practicing Vinyasa Yoga?
For your Vinyasa Yoga practice, you will need to invest in a good, quality, eco-friendly yoga mat .
The Mat PRO and PROlite Manduka yoga mats are ideal! If you only want to practice at home, the Mat Pro mat will be perfect, because it is slightly thicker, but heavier (not suitable for transport). On the other hand, if you want to take it to the studio, the PROlite Yoga mat keeps the same qualities as the Mat PRO , but is easier to transport. Both mats are guaranteed for life.
If you want a natural rubber mat, the EcoYoga Yoga mat mixed with jute may suit you or the Harmony Jade mat .
What are the benefits of Vinyasa Yoga?
Regarding the benefits of Vinyasa Yoga , you will find, as with other forms of Yoga, physical and mental virtues . Indeed, the heat will increase during the session allowing detoxification and the sequence of postures will tone and strengthen your body. On the mental level, your mind will learn to be more focused due to the synchronization of breathing with movements. This will help to let go and acquire better stress management.
Overall, regular practice of Vinyasa will allow you to:
- to improve your balance and sculpt your figure,
- to have better concentration,
- to improve your sleep,
- to increase your endurance and strength,
- to strengthen and stretch your deep muscles,
- to detoxify your body.
Discover a Vinyasa Yoga session
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEFRtZX-f6I
If you would like to find out more about Ashtanga yoga , please read the corresponding article on the blog.
