Vinyasa Yoga, a fluid and dynamic type of yoga, grows more and more popular in the whole world because of its many benefits for the mind and body. This sequential practice stands out by breathing synchronised movements, thus creating a graceful and energizing dance. In this article, we’ll explore Vinyasa Yoga‘s origins, its fundamental principles and its benefits, therefore offering a complete overview of this constantly changing practice.
Vinyasa Yoga finds its origins in the thousand year-old yoga tradition but its dynamic and fluid style was popularized by contemporanean masters such as Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya and his student Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. This Yoga form is concentrated on movements coordinated with breathing, thus creating a moving meditaiton.
The word “Vinyasa” means “synchronising movement with breathing”. In Vinyasa Yoga, asanas (postures) are chained in a fluid and continuous, in an uninterrupted flow. Each movement is guided by a specific inhalation or exhalation, which allows to enter in a deep state of concentration. Transitions between the postures are as importnt as the postures themselves, therefore creating a holistic yoga experience.
Key principles of Yoga Vinyasa :
1. Ujjayi breathing : A deep and controlled breathing also called “victorious breath”. It helps keeping pace and generating internal heat.
2. Bandhas : The “energetic locks” used in Vinyasa Yoga to focus and drive the energy flow into the body.
3. Drishti : Visual focus points help keeping balance and concentration during the practice.
Body and Mind benefits :
1. Muscle strengthening and flexibility : Yoga Vinyasa tones the muscles, improves flexibility and develops physical stamina.
2. Stress management and relaxation : the combination of fluid movements, deep breathing and mental concentration helps calming the nervous system and reducing stress.
3. Focus improvement : Vinyasa Yoga requires a close attention on breathing and movements, which reinforces concentration and promotes mental health.
4. Energetic Balance : Regular practice of Vinyasa Yoga helps balancing energy flow in the body, thus stimulating vitality and creativity.
Vinyasa Yoga offers a dynamic and fluid experience that harmonises body, mind and spirit. By practicing this Yoga form, we can grow physical strength, mental felxibility and emotional balance. Wether you are a beginner or an experimented yogi, Vinyasa Yoga invites you to fully commit in the present time and to find your own pace on the mat, therefore creating a way toward balance and inner harmony.
