Quick Guide to Vinyasa Yoga
The term Vinyasa itself in Sanskrit means “connection”, presumably due to the inter-relationship between its physical moves and breathing. Also called Flow Yoga, this style of yoga is different from other styles because of the smooth transition from one pose to the next through a series of transitional poses – similar to a choreographed dance.
Your instructor will signal the transition from one pose to the next timed on an inhale or exhale of breath through the nose. Some poses however, are held for a number of complete breathes before moving to the next pose. It is the timing that creates a smooth flow to the routine that relies heavily on Sun Salutation poses.
As with other forms of yoga, there are various levels of expertise. Even if you consider yourself already athletic, choose a beginner’s class so you have time to learn the various poses before moving to a more challenging class where you are already expected to know how to do the poses in the routine.
Finding a Yoga Class You Like
Due to the flexibility of the Vinyasa routine, each instructor may have his or her own twist to their yoga class. Some instructors incorporate music, chanting or meditation into their classes. If your first class choice does not meet your expectations, try a Vinyasa class with a different instructor. Keep trying until you find one you like.
Benefits of Vinyasa Yoga
Besides connecting posture, mental thoughts and spiritual energy together, this style of yoga produces an internal heat from its steady and continuous movement; it is the heat generated inside of the body that helps detoxify it, along with reducing risk of injury, improving your cardiovascular and respiratory systems (through the deep breathing techniques), building muscle strength, increasing bone density, reducing stress and improving sleep. Knowing how to “ride the flow” of Vinyasa Yoga also helps ride the flow of life, by having less stress and sleeping better.
While Vinyasa yoga is not usually a first choice for those new to yoga, if you like a something that is a little unpredictable and one that keeps you moving the whole time, this style may be the one for you. Classes normally last from 60 to 90 minutes and make a good precursor to Ashtanga yoga, but if you expect your class to be routine, it will be anything but.
Find a class right for you and go with the flow!
