5 Best Forms Vinyasa Yoga To Try For Yourself

Vinyasa yoga is a popular form of contemporary yoga known for its smooth sequences.

5 Best Forms Vinyasa Yoga To Try For Yourself

Also known as “flow” yoga, this type of yoga is all about counting each movement to create a sequence, rather than a rest in between each pose. To some, Vinyasa yoga looks something like a choreographed dance. 

There are several types of yoga that come under the umbrella of Vinyasa yoga.

Each form of Vinyasa yoga varies in sequence length and type, with most Vinyasa teachers choreographing their own arrangement of poses.

As long as the movements are synchronized with breathing, it is classified as Vinyasa. 

So, if you’re new to the world of yoga and want to learn more about this fascinating form of movement, you’ve come to the right place. Here are the 5 best forms of Vinyasa yoga to try for yourself. 

What Is Vinyasa Yoga?

Firstly, let’s take a closer look at what Vinyasa yoga actually is.

Vinyasa yoga is an umbrella term for forms of yoga that consist of moving from one pose to another in a sequence. This sequence is controlled by breathing and moving into different positions quickly in the form of a flow. 

Due to the nature of this particular yoga style, Vinyasa yoga is best suited for those who want something more like a dance workout.

It’s not slow-paced and won’t allow for breaks in between poses. Instead, this contemporary form of yoga is more of a fun and challenging class. 

Vinyasa yoga is suitable for yogis of all abilities, as there are classes for all skill levels across the Western world. 

Forms Of Vinyasa Yoga 

5 Best Forms Vinyasa Yoga To Try For Yourself

Ashtanga 

Ashtanga has been one of the most popular forms of contemporary yoga since the late 1990s. It differs from Hatha yoga, wherein the poses are separate with breaks in between.

Instead, Ashtanga is all about linking a series of poses together with breath to create a flowy sequence. 

Ashtanga yoga is thought to have originated in the early 20th century by T. Krishnamacharya for one of his students. The fast nature of Ashtanga might be influenced by Indian gymnasts and wrestlers. 

Ashtanga is made up of two Sanskrit words – “Ashta” and “Anga”, meaning eight and limb respectively. This means that Ashtanga comprises all eight limbs of yoga into one sequence, which is representative of the branches of philosophy of the yoga sutras. 

These eight limbs of yoga include:

  • Self-discipline (Niyama)
  • Breath control (Pranayama)
  • Moral codes (Yama)
  • Concentration (Dharana)
  • Meditation (Dhyana)
  • Posture (Asana)
  • Oneness with the self (Samadhi) 

Each yoga instructor will create their own Ashtanga sequence.

However, the majority of Ashtanga sequences typically include five repetitions of Sun Salutations A and B. This then flows into five repetitions of standing poses, and then seated poses. The sequences will vary depending on skill level. 

The only thing that separates Ashtanga yoga from other forms of Vinyasa yoga is that Ashtanga yoga is based on a strict set of sequences. Other forms of Vinyasa yoga are often more improvised and freestyle. 

Baptiste Yoga

Another form of Vinyasa yoga, Baptiste yoga is a vigorous form of yoga consisting of a smooth sequence of asanas.

This type of yoga contains 53 poses that are linked together by controlled breathing exercises designed to move from one pose to another in complete fluidity. 

There are five important aspects of Baptiste yoga, including:

  • Breath
  • Flow
  • Core stabilization
  • Heat
  • Gaze

Baptiste yoga uses Ujjayi breathing, which is a breathing technique designed to keep the breaths long and deep to keep the yogi calm. It also helps you move deeper into each pose with ease. 

Interestingly, something that makes Baptiste yoga stand out to other Vinyasa yogas is that the rooms are generally heated to 90-95 degrees Fahrenheit.

Not only is this to replicate the temperatures in India, but it’s also designed to help students flush out toxins and allow themselves to fall into a sweaty, loose sequence. 

Jivamukti Yoga 

Jivamukti yoga is a Vinyasa-based yoga style that is a physical, spiritual, and ethical practice.

Not only does it consist of a sequence of poses that flow together in a continuous movement, but this form of yoga is about a lifestyle as well as the physical yoga. 

Jivamukti yoga is composed of five central aspects, including:

  • Meditation (Dhyana)
  • Devotion (Bhakti)
  • Scripture (Shastra)
  • Music (Nada)
  • Nonviolence (Adimsa)

The spiritual philosophy of this form of yoga includes veganism, environmentalism, social activism, and animal rights.

It was founded in 1984 by Sharon Gannon and her partner David Life, who were inspired by their practice of Ashtanga yoga. Jivamukti yoga is about liberating the body, mind, and soul while we are still alive. 

Despite controversies about the culture of Jivamukti, this is another great example of Vinyasa yoga that is ideal for beginners and advanced yogis alike. 

Power Yoga

Power yoga, as the name suggests, is a form of Vinyasa yoga that is all about improving muscle strength and endurance.

It’s not for the weak at heart, as each pose is as challenging as the last, and must be completed in a quick sequence. This is one of the most vigorous types of yoga that is more like a workout. 

Technically, power yoga isn’t an official form of yoga. It is believed that power yoga came about in the early 20th century, and has since become popular for those wanting to burn calories and build strength.

The intensity of the sequences is controlled by breathing and understanding the body, which is why this yoga is best for advanced and experienced yogis. 

There are countless benefits to power yoga, including the promotion of cardiovascular health, improving sleep and energy levels, building stronger muscles and bones, controlling high blood pressure, and helping with weight loss

The drawback of power yoga is the sheer intensity of the workout. This isn’t the type of yoga for those who want to align their chakras, and is better suited for those with a basic understanding of Vinyasa poses already. 

Prana Flow Yoga 

Prana Flow yoga is a rhythmic form of Vinyasa yoga that is designed to make students feel energetic after the session. It uses a mixture of traditional and contemporary yoga approaches, drawing inspiration from Tantra, Somatics, Bhakti, Ayurveda, and Krishnamacharya to name a few. 

In the world of yoga, the energy that weaves its way through life and is the foundation of our existence is called “Prana”.

Prana Flow yoga, therefore, is designed to move with the subtle mystical energy we have in our bodies, which is moved through a sequence of flowing poses and linked breathing exercises. 

To have control of our Prana is to have control over our physical bodies, as our physical health is directly tied to the circulation of Prana. This yoga style is also very grounding and good for mindfulness, as it encourages us to concentrate on the moment. 

Prana Flow yoga was founded in 2005 by Shiva Rea, who is one of the best-known yoga teachers in America.

These classes are typically held with a specific genre of music in the background, designed to promote the movement of Prana. 

Benefits Of Vinyasa Yoga 

So, now we know about the 5 best forms of Vinyasa yoga. Let’s take a look at why Vinyasa yoga is so popular and its benefits. 

Above all else, Vinyasa yoga is great for your physical health. Any type of physical activity is good for your body, but this form of yoga is particularly good for anyone who wants to get healthier while reducing stress, focusing on your mental wellbeing, and having fun. 

Studies have shown that Vinyasa yoga provides a significant improvement in heart health and high blood pressure, and can also reduce arterial stiffness that comes with age.

With Vinyasa classes available in all skill levels, it’s a fairly accessible yoga for people of all yoga abilities and ages. 

What’s more, Vinyasa yoga is proven to improve positive emotions. It is said to reduce the risks and effects of anxiety, stress, and depression, allowing for people to handle stress in healthier ways.

This is likely due to the promotion of healthy blood circulation, and breathing exercises that are designed to keep you energized and full of life. 

Summary 

So, there you have it! Vinyasa yoga is a category of contemporary yoga that encompasses many types of yoga, all of which are comprised of a sequence of flowing movements and poses. Hopefully, this guide has introduced you to some new Vinyasa yoga forms. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vinyasa Yoga Excellent For Beginners?

Yes, Vinyasa yoga is great for beginners! Vinyasa yoga is available for all skill levels and ages, and it’s recommended to start with beginner classes even if you have some knowledge of Vinyasa yoga styles. 

It’s not a particularly relaxing form of yoga, but definitely one to get your heart pumping and body moving. The higher the skill level class, the higher the intensity of the sequences. So, make sure to work with your body and don’t push yourself too hard. 

Laura Simmons
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