What is Vinyasa Yoga?
Vinyasa yoga explained
Vinyasa yoga is a dynamic style of yoga best known for synchronizing the body, mind and breath in a structured way.
The style continues to grow its influence in the western world and is one of the more popular styles of yoga.
The style is commonly known as flow yoga, with many variations such as power or ashtanga vinyasa yoga.
It is a dynamic yoga practice, and is generally a more physically focused style.
Vinyasa defined
The word vinyasa is defined as the ‘movement between poses in yoga, typically accompanied by regulated breathing.’
In yoga, it’s generally known as the mergence of breath and movement in association with a pose or sequence.
The yoga style itself generally begins with a warm up, followed by a dynamic exercise routine, finishing with a cool down.
A trademark of a vinyasa yoga class is it’s consistent intensity and movement throughout.
Because it merges the breath and movement in a dynamic and structured way, it’s common to have a 5 breath count and a structured sequence.
Another important feature of a vinyasa yoga class is its focus to the Ujjayi breath.
This breathing technique is known to improve focus and reduce stress.
What does ‘take a vinyasa’ mean?
A vinyasa (mergence of breath and body) is when you work through one of the transitions with that intention.
So when you do a sun salutation and go from plank pose, chaturunga to upward dog, your taking a vinyasa
Why?
Because you are breathing in and out with direct intention for that movement!
History of Vinyasa Yoga
The vinyasa style generally has influence from both hatha yoga and ashtanga yoga.
Vinyasa yoga was prevalent in the mid 1900’s but skyrocketed over the last two decades.
A main reasons for it’s growth is it’s dynamic, modern approach towards yoga practice.
The open market and increased growth of yoga teacher trainings has spread it’s influence rapidly.
Health Benefits of vinyasa yoga
Some of the most common benefits of vinyasa yoga include:
- Improved flexibility;
- Builds strength;
- Regulates adrenal glands;
- Improves your immune system;
- Improves your sleep;
- Promotes relaxation;
Read more about the benefits of yoga here!
Reasons to practice vinyasa yoga
It keeps you focused and engaged
You stay focused and engaged by merging your breath with your body!
By linking your poses to your breath through every inhale and exhale, you become grounded and more in tune with yourself and the practice!
This is good for people who find it hard to focus in class. It keeps the body moving in a challenging, fun but energizing way.
The practice changes
Vinyasa classes tend to share a lot in common with the ashtanga style of yoga.
This is because in that they work many continuous poses with reference to the breath and alignment.
However, a vinyasa class is a lot more flexible. This is because we can change the pace and have a particular focus for the class.
For example, a vinyasa class may choose to focus on back-bending or opening the hips.
The style of a class varies a lot depending on the instructor and focus.
Good for beginners and advanced yogis
Although some vinyasa classes can be very challenging, most are suitable for the majority of people.
Vinyasa teachers have flexibility in the teaching style, and can mix it up based on demand.
A good yoga teacher will change the pace and style to suit the participants.
Good cardio workout
The appealing feature for this style of yoga is the consistent cardio-vascular workout.
With strong, continuous sequences, our cardiovascular endurance and stamina significantly improves.
The functional fitness aspect of yoga tends to provide a well rounded workout.
This leaves one satisfied and content, yet somehow ready for more.
It’s fun
The classes are a fun, playful and energetic style of yoga!
With friendly yoga instructors, it will reduce your stress and improve your health and wellbeing.
Whether you are a complete beginner, or experienced in yoga, you’ll find a class that suits!
Top 5 questions about Vinyasa Yoga
Can beginners do vinyasa yoga?
Yes, beginners can practice vinyasa yoga.
It’s important you let your teacher know that you are a beginner so they can give you options.
You should also find a beginners vinyasa yoga class.
Why is vinyasa yoga good for you?
Vinyasa yoga is a full body workout working both your body and mind.
The wide range of options make it good for improving health and wellbeing.
Is vinyasa yoga good for weight loss?
Yes, studies have shown that vinyasa yoga can improve weight loss!
It’s important to practice vinyasa yoga in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle.
What is the difference between vinyasa yoga and hatha yoga?
Vinyasa yoga is a dynamic style of practice where you merge the breath with the movements.
Hatha yoga does is not as focused on the Ujjayi breathing techniques.
A hatha class may hold the poses for longer, whereas a vinyasa class has a constant flow.
How do I become a vinyasa yoga teacher?
People become vinyasa yoga teachers by undertaking specialized vinyasa yoga courses.
The most common course is the 200hr Yoga Alliance Teacher Training.
