The word Vinyasa is literally translated from Sanskrit word meaning “connection” and the Vinyasa style of yoga is based on synchronizing postures and breath together in a rotation like a “wheel” or a “circle”. The continual movements, from one pose to another gives an added cardiovascular benefit, which more traditional forms of yoga do not have. The routine practice of Vinyasa yoga can increase muscle strength, endurance and flexibility, and reduce levels of stress.
History
The Yoga Korunta is a purported ancient text on yoga, transmitted by oral tradition to Tirumalai Krishnamacharya by his teacher Ramamohana Brahmachari in the early 20th century, and further to Sri K. Pattabhi Jois beginning in 1927, who then used it as the basis of his system of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. The name Yoga Korunta is the Tamilized pronounciation of the Sanskrit words Yoga Grantha, meaning, “Book about Yoga”.
Methodology
Movement of asanas is synchronized with the breath. This style is sometimes called flow yoga, because of the smooth way the poses run together. The teacher will instruct you to move from one pose to another on an inhale or exhale.
Vinyasa also means a series of (normally) three poses that are done as part of Sun salutation sequence: Adho Muka Svanasana (Downward facing dog), Chaturanga Dandasana and Urdva Mukha Svanasana (Upward facing dog). For beginners these postures can be replaced by: Adho Muka Svanasana (Downward facing dog), Ashtanga Namaskar, Bhujangasana (Cobra). So the example of the sequence can be: Warrior 1 on the right leg – Vinyasa – Warrior 1 on the left leg – Vinyasa – Trikonasana on the right leg – Vinyasa – Trikonasana on the left leg – Vinyasa and so on.
Types of Vinyasa Yoga:
- Ashtanga Vinyasa
- Hatha Vinyasa
- Vinyasa Flow
- Power Vinyasa
- Gentle Vinyasa
Physiology of Vinyasa System:
Effect on the mind:
removes laziness, lethargy and brings activation to the mind. Energetic feeling after the practice.
Effect on the body:
increases circulatory system, increases heart beat, circulates blood to muscles and removes toxins. It activates the nervous system, brings energy and removes depression. It makes digestive system stronger and removes constipation. Muscles become more flexible, strong and powerful, full of energy and vigor. After practice: muscles get tired due to dynamic movement.
Namaste.