What is Vinyasa yoga and what are its benefits?
The benefits of yoga are becoming increasingly accepted in Western cultures as more and more people turn to the discipline for relief from pain and as a pathway to general health. A greater percentage of the population is seeking out yoga as a natural (non-narcotic, non-surgical, noninvasive) method of pain relief than ever before. According to USA Today, nearly 10 percent of Americans now participate in some form of yoga, making it roughly as popular as golf!
As with other alternative forms of medicine, it is important to check out the source of treatment and the practitioner before participating. It is safest to receive yoga treatment at a reputable medical facility where you can have the source of your pain professionally evaluated by a doctor before you begin. One of the most popular types of yoga is Vinyasa which means “breath-synchronized movement.” Vinyasa yoga is known as an especially calming variety of yoga.
Just Flow
Vinyasa yoga involves a series of poses that moves the individual through “breath-synchronized movements.” Known as “Vinyasa Flow” or “Just Flow,” this type of yoga takes the participant through smooth poses, similar to those used in gentle forms of dancing. Exercising with ease and grace, and using the power of one’s own breath during movement, has a very soothing effect on all systems of the body. Inhaling and exhaling become a means of transporting the individual over and around the obstacles of physical limitations of pain toward peace and health.
Benefits of Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa yoga, like all forms of yoga, incorporates mental as well as physical benefits. As the physical activity causes the body to sweat and expel toxins, the synchronized breathing relaxes the mind.
Additional physical benefits of Vinyasa yoga include:
- Improving muscle strength, both in the back and abdomen
- Improving concentration on various muscle groups
- Aiding posture and ease of movement
- Easing both physical and emotional stress by stretching and letting go
- Improving balance and alignment, helping to maintain the natural curvature of the spine
- Restoring increased blood circulation to muscles so nutrients flow in and toxins flow out
- Nourishing the soft tissues in the lower back, thus decreasing pain
- Making the individual more aware of the body, both in terms of strengths and limitations
- Reducing emotional stress and enhancing mood
After a session of Vinyasa yoga, participants experience both release of pain and anxiety and a sense of renewed vitality.