Vinyasa Yoga

When I first started practicing yoga, I thought that there were two types of yoga: slow and easy, or fast-paced and difficult. However, through years of practice and education, I’ve learned that there are so many different styles and lineages to explore. This is of course great news because it means that you don’t need to settle for one type of yoga. Instead, you have the opportunity to choose methods that compliment your personality and your preferences.

Yoga is the type of movement I choose most often, so I’ve never limited my practice to just one style. I practice Yin yoga to complement running, Restorative yoga when I’m experiencing anxiety, and Ashtanga when I’m feeling flustered and craving routine. But without hesitation, I can say that my favorite practice and the style of yoga that I gravitate to the most is Vinyasa.

To me, Vinyasa feels fluid. It’s creative and different every time, and sometimes it can feel more like an intuitive dance on my mat rather than a discipline. So what exactly is Vinyasa, and what can you expect from this style of yoga?

What is Vinyasa yoga?

Vinyasa yoga is often synonymous with the word “flow” because of its tendency to link each pose with the next through flowing transitions. Vinyasa is energizing and challenging but still follows a structure of groundedness. Classes start still and gradually build in intensity to a peak, then soften to a slower pace, eventually returning to stillness.  Its origins are in Ashtanga yoga, an Indian-based style that, though physically demanding, emphasizes the integration of spirituality into one’s yoga practice. Similarly, Vinyasa encourages taking yoga “off the mat,” promoting a kind, peaceful life through the Yamas and Niyamas.

The spiritual side of Vinyasa

 Vinyasa follows ancient scripts by sage Patanjali called the “8 limbs of yoga”. The 8 limbs include the physical practice of yoga, breathwork, meditation, and most importantly, moral disciplines and positive observances. These disciplines and observances, otherwise known as the Yamas and Niyamas, include leading a life of non-violence towards oneself and others, self-study, truthfulness, and many other beautiful practices that help enrich your life. 

The anatomy of Vinyasa 

Vinyasa is an anatomically intelligent practice. The framework for building class sequences helps reduce the chance of injury and discomfort and is designed to help practitioners find their fullest expression of the postures. Sequences emphasize the nervous system and the importance of returning to a parasympathetic state, spinal health, joint health, and the energetic body. Vinyasa isn’t shy about offering modifications and the use of props, making it accessible and inviting for all levels and body structures.