Vinyasa Yoga Classes Online

Introduction to Vinyasa Yoga: Characteristics and Benefits

Yogic teachings are ancient but the practice is evolving. The exact date associated with the origin of yoga practices remains a mystery. But experts suggest that the practice dates back to the pre-Vedic age—thousands of years ago. The practice is now becoming more relevant in the modern world. Regular yoga exercise is proven to be effective in achieving a healthier body and mind. Yoga is a natural way to decrease levels of stress, worry, and chronic inflammation.

There are different types of yoga including Hatha, ashtanga vinyasa, etc. Here we are going to introduce the basics of vinyasa flow.

What is vinyasa yoga?

Vinyasa is one of the most popular styles of modern yoga practice where the poses (asanas) are performed in a flowing sequence. There is a smooth transition from one pose to the other in a seamless pattern. Hence, it is also referred to as “flow” yoga.

The word “vinyasa” means to place certain things in a special order. In vinyasa yoga, we keep the yoga poses arranged in a special flow or order.

• The main focus is on connecting physical movements with breath in a vinyasa practice.

• The transitions between the asanas are as important as the asanas themselves. How you inhale and exhale air and even stillness between the postures are important.

• The pace may feel a bit faster and the exercise might be a little more intense than other forms of yoga. Because vinyasa yoga accelerates your heart rate and breathing as you directly move from one pose to the next.

• Vinyasa yoga often gets confused with power yoga. Because in both styles, a series of high-intensity movements are strung together in a relatively faster manner. But they are not the same style.

What are the benefits of vinyasa yoga?

There are many benefits of vinyasa flow yoga for physical, mental, and emotional health. It’s a fast-paced, high-intensity style useful in

• developing muscle tone
• building strength, endurance, and flexibility
• improving cardiovascular health and lung capacity
• decreasing risks of high blood pressure
• improving focus and concentration
• attaining a calmer mind with less stress and anxiety

What are the types of vinyasa poses?

The specific poses in the flow and their pace may vary. It depends on the yoga instructor and the proficiency of the participants attending the class.

You can expect a variety of poses in a vinyasa flow yoga class including standing, seated, balancing postures, twists, inversion, reclining, and kneeling positions, etc.

Vinyasa yoga classes may include these poses:

• Chaturanga dandasana or low plank pose
• One-legged dog, downward facing dog/knee-to-nose pose
• Warrior pose
• Boat pose variation on chair pose

Is Vinyasa Yoga For Me?

Vinyasa flow yoga is a great way to keep active and become more strong and more stable. If you’re getting started, a beginner’s flow (paced slower) will help you learn the basics.

Which form of yoga is the best for you depends on your needs, goals, preferences, and abilities. Also, remember to ease into a new practice comfortably and progress at your own pace without pushing yourself too much. Don’t force your body to try new poses just because the other participants in the room are performing them. Respect your body and improve its ability gradually, one step at a time.

So, if you’re new to yoga, you may need a certified yoga instructor in guiding you as well as deciding/modify the style that works for you.