Vinyasa is a term used to describe continuous or dynamic movements between yoga poses. This flow of movement is excellent for getting your heart rate going and working up a sweat. Vinyasa can also help increase flexibility, strength, stability, calmness, and focus. Even if you do not wish to practice vinyasa yoga, the use and applications of this term are essential to understand as a dedicated practitioner of yoga.
The synchronizing of physical movement with your breath in hatha yoga is called vinyasa. This technique allows you to create a deeper absorption of awareness through a rhythmic moving meditation while practicing yoga.
Vinyasa is used in yoga to denote any of the following:
- Linking a movement to an inhale or exhale of breath;
- A yoga sequence where each movement is linked with the breath;
- A yoga class or style that primarily focuses on a continuous movement with the breath; or
- Setting an intention or goal and taking deliberate and linked steps towards achieving it.
Vinyasa is best used in warmups and during sun salutation sequences.
Some styles of yoga use vinyasa through the entire practice, which can often sacrifice proper alignment in favor of moving quickly and fluidly through poses. However, the repetition of poses and movement with the breath does build familiarity, create mastery, build strength, and increase body heat.
