Synchronize your mind, body and soul with Vinyasa yoga

Vinyasa is a Sanskrit word that means “variations within parameters”; however it is also defined today as “flow,” that is “flowing from one pose to the next”. The traditional meaning of Vinyasa has been defined as “to place in a special way” which means there is an order in these practices, and that is what the Vinyasa teacher should be aware of.

The Emphasis of Breathing

In Vinsaya yoga, there is much emphasis on breathing. Controlled breathing helps the students to focus and to move through the poses perfectly. Without the emphasis given on breathing, the yoga class would be more like an aerobics class.

Alignment

Alignment of the body in perfect form is very important. The vinyasa teacher should know about the alignment of each of the poses so that they can help their students experience the right kind of vinsaya yoga. If the pose would not be correct or misaligned, it will defeat the purpose of the exercise and there would be increased likelihood of injury as well.

Anatomy

A good Vinyasa teacher will be aware of the anatomy that comprises the basic parts of the body and the effect of yoga on them: like the various muscles, bones, and joints. He should know how each of his students is doing and whether the particular pose is helping or not.

Alternate Poses and Adaptations

A Vinyasa teacher should know that some bodies are more flexible while some are not. If three of his students are successful in doing some pose, the fourth may not necessarily be able to do it as well. Since each body is unique, the teacher should help the students in making the poses that suit their bodies. His knowledge of poses should be extensive so he can find alternate poses and adaptations for struggling students.