Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa Yoga - Observations from Class

Today I experienced Vinyasa Yoga for the first time. Vinyasa is the Sanskrit word for "flow", and it refers both to the flow of breath, and movement. Vinyasa is represented by a continuous linking of yoga postures and to the continuous flow of energy, or "prana", which is elevated during the practice of yoga.

The initial observation I made today was that we were guided through very beautiful, flowing movements of yoga. The poses and postures were linked sequentially, sometimes very quickly. The session was comprised of a series of even, smooth movements and short holds, from stretch to stretch. Vinyasa enhanced the feeling of fluidity, and breath-awareness, with a balance of challenging and relaxing aspects.

The instructor facilitated the constant movements with a mix of gentility and enthusiasm, encouragement, and "tough love". She inspired us to stretch the extra inch, hold our pose the extra moment, and honor and thank ourselves for each small victory.

The practice of Vinyasa yoga commanded and held my interest. The constant movement and change of postures kept me fully engaged in the present moment. I was never bored or focused on perceived problem areas in my body. My mind never drifted away from the moment that was unfolding before me.

The instructor used humor and laughter to keep the mood light. Aware of students needs, she gently places a hand here to correct a pose, or offers a whispered morsel of encouragement there. She provides alternatives, for example, "look toward the ceiling for maximum effect or at the floor to relax your neck", and she reminds us to listen to our bodies and return to a resting pose when it's appropriate for us.

When class was through, I noticed that all areas of my body had been utilized. I felt we performed