Yoga Vinyasas Which Ones Are Right For You

Yoga vinyasas that are right for you

When you think of yoga, you probably think of poses that emphasize self-awareness and flexibility. However, you can link poses in series called yoga vinyasas. In these vinyasas, poses are performed in a loose sequence that adds to your overall yoga experience. Even if your yoga teacher is trained to create vinyasas for you, there are also certain existing sequences that you can do yourself once you know what poses they involve. Two that are particularly popular in the West are Salute to the Sun and Warrior II.

Salutation to the sun

One of the most popular sequences is known as the Sun Salutation. This is one flow of 12 different yoga poses. With each one, you should inhale to accompany the stretch and exhale as you contract or fold your body. This particular vinyasas is designed to build your strength and increase your overall flexibility. As with most vinyas, you can find variations depending on what style of yoga you use, but there are a few basic poses and a flow that is fairly consistent between variations.

With Sun Salutation, you go through the flow twice to complete one round. Do this once for the right side of your body and a second time for the left. If you're pressed for time, try to do at least one anyway. Even this half sequence will help you feel invigorated.

The sun salutation begins with a mountain. From there you go with arms up, head to knees, lunge, plank and club. Still flowing, you go into upward dog, downward, and lunge. Finally, the sequence ends from head to knees, hands up, and the mountain again. As you can see, the Sun Salutation is naturally circular, as are many other yoga sequences.

Warrior II

Another popular sequence for yogis in the West is called Triangle, or Warrior II. This particular vinyasas emphasizes your breathing. Although it's usually recommended to try this movement between poses in rhythm with your breath, you can experiment with different breathing patterns to see what works best for you and how each works for you. In fact, this ability to experiment freely is what has made them such popular vinyasas.

The sequence for Warrior II works through four positions. You will use the Mountain, the Triangle, the Warrior II and the standing Yoga Mudra. If you move in this order, you will move through the sequence in time with your breath. This particular sequence will tend to relieve stress and help with your flexibility. Remember, as with all yoga, to pay close attention to your breathing patterns while focusing on yourself.

Once you start learning a series of yoga poses, you can start experimenting with vinyasas on your own or with a teacher. They allow you to not only work in the poses but also maintain a physical and mental flow as you do your daily yoga. In addition, you can find other yoga sequences to suit your skill level, needs and yoga style. Overall, vinyasas are a part of yoga that can help you see and feel results faster and more consistently.