Vinyasa Yoga
"Creating Strength, Stillness and Light…"
Yoga is a Sanskrit word that means UNION. Essentially the union of the body and mind. Yoga involves the physical act of stretching the muscles to release tension in the body and mind and the performing of yoga postures which increase circulation to certain body areas and allow relaxation of the mind. Regular practice increases flexibility, strength and overall mind-body awareness.
Yoga is more than just a physical act however, it is really a lifestyle. To be in a state of yoga is to be in a state of balance and harmony in life.
Vinyasa Yoga is a flowing or moving yoga. The word Vinyasa again is a Sanskrit word that means FLOW. Vinyasa Yoga uses motion to create stillness. By performing a flowing sequence of postures we are bringing the mind into time with the body; creating unity. During Vinyasa Yoga while the body is moving or flowing the mind remains still. Life and the world around us is constantly moving and changing, if we can create the ability to remain still amidst all the movement in our lives then we will in turn be able to live a more balanced and harmonious life.
Vikki’s classes begin with gentle opening and conditioning exercises followed by a flow of Sun Salutations to generate heat before moving on to various sequences of the traditional yoga postures (Asanas).
There is a strong focus on the use of the breath and breathing techniques (Pranayama) to both encourage flowing from one posture to another and to centre the mind.
By simply incorporating deeper and fuller breathing (using the full capacity of our lungs) into our everyday lives we are already on track to achieving greater balance. Just a few minutes a day performing breathing techniques can really help to calm the mind, improve circulation and performance of the bodily organs, particularly the digestive system.
The emphasis in Vikki’s class is on a non competitive individual yoga practice where students are encouraged to explore their own boundaries and progress at their own unique pace.