| Vinyasa is a Sanskrit word, which refers to breath | | | | months. During the summer months, we keep the |
| and movement. For example each Yoga posture is | | | | temperature in the low 70's. That is a far cry from a |
| matched by one breath. This is what you do when | | | | 105-degree hot Yoga or Bikram classes. |
| you perform Sun or Moon salutations, and these are | | | | Most of the heat generated in a typical Vinyasa class |
| also a form of Vinyasa Yoga. | | | | is internal body heat. As a result of all this internal |
| So, any sequences of postures that are | | | | heat, you will most likely sweat. Therefore, bring a |
| synchronized, with your breath are classified as | | | | towel and a bottle of good quality water. |
| Vinyasa. There are many forms of Vinyasa and even | | | | When used for personal health maintenance, Vinyasa |
| the gentle ones are vigorous. The postures are not | | | | Yoga is the ultimate cross training system, with low |
| held in a fixed position for long and classes flow with | | | | impact movement, aerobic, and muscle toning |
| rhythm, similar to music. | | | | benefits. Your body will go through an incredible |
| The energy used in flowing from one movement, to | | | | transformation, but it does require determination. This |
| the next, continues throughout a typical Vinyasa | | | | explains why Vinyasa Yoga attracts so many type A |
| Yoga class. This type of Yoga class will challenge | | | | personalities. |
| aerobic endurance, enhance flexibility, and build overall | | | | Even if you don't have a type A personality, it will |
| strength. | | | | rub off. As a "by product" of Vinyasa practice, your |
| There are many variations of Vinyasa Yoga classes. | | | | self-esteem will be improved. You will manage stress |
| Some are related to or offshoots of Ashtanga Yoga, | | | | and develop a much more calm personality. |
| some are very gentle, and others are variations of | | | | Now, where do you start? Find a local school with at |
| extended Sun or Moon sequences. The variety of | | | | least two levels of Vinyasa practice. If you have |
| Vinyasa classes is further expanded when you | | | | been on the couch for a while, it will be best to take |
| consider different sequences, pace of the class, and | | | | some gentle Yoga classes first. |
| the temperature of the room. | | | | However, if you are very active, you may want to |
| What about heated Yoga classes is this hot Yoga? | | | | jump right in. You should have an honest talk with |
| The temperature can vary depending upon the policy | | | | your Yoga teacher, before starting Vinyasa practice. |
| of the Yoga studio. | | | | It's always best to be honest with yourself, about |
| At our wellness center in North Providence, RI, the | | | | your level of fitness. Have fun, but do not push |
| temperature can be near 80 Fahrenheit during winter | | | | yourself, when you are in unfamiliar territory. |