Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is a system of yoga that allegedly has its origins in an ancient manuscript known as the Yoga Korunta. Its current form was developed at the Mysore Palace in Mysore India. Vinyasa emphasizes the connection between movement and breath. It is a dynamic system composed of a specifically designed series of postures that emphasizes strength and flexibility, while working to focus and calm the mind. It is especially well suited for active people that are looking for a workout.
Vinyasa is a term that covers a broad range of yoga classes. The word Vinyasa means “breath-synchronized movement.” In other words, the teacher will instruct you to move from one pose to the next on an inhale or an exhale. This technique is sometimes also called Vinyasa Flow, or just Flow because of the smooth way that the poses run together and become like a dance.
This style of yoga is characterized by a focus on dynamic connecting posture, that creates a flow between the more static traditional yoga postures Vinyasa translates as linking and the system also implies the linking of the movement to the breath. Essentially the breath dictates the movement and the lenghth of time held in the postures. Unlike some Hatha yoga styles, attention is also placed on the journey between the postures not just the postures themselves. The whole practice is defined by specific series of postures, combined with specific breathing patterns.
The purpose of vinyasa is to create heat in the body, which leads to purification of the body through increased circulation and sweating, a process producing intense internal heat and a profuse, purifying sweat that detoxifies muscles and organs. The result is improved circulation, a light and strong body, and a calm mind. It also improves flexibility, as well as tendon and hard tissue strength, allowing the student to practice advanced asanas with reduced risk of injury.
Vinyasa’s strength is in its diversity. There is no single philosophy, or sequence that teachers must follow, so there is a lot of room for individual personalities and quirks to come through. This makes it essential that you find a teacher you enjoy and can relate to. Feel free to contact Monica and discuss details
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