Guest Author - Nancy Welker
WHAT IS VINIYOGA?
In contrast to studios that teach "Hot Yoga" and "Power Yoga" Viniyoga presents a softer and more gentle approach to our practice.
The term "viniyoga" in Sanskrit has more than one meaning. Taken literally it can mean "leaving" or "separating", however it's mainly associated with "use" and "application". Viniyoga teachings stress starting from where you are right now, as opposed to where you set your goal to be.
In the book, "Yoga Sutras of Pantanjali", the word "viniyoga" appears in a discussion of the practice of samyama which takes place in stages.
In Hindu teachings, Viniyoga is a brief introductory period when the student learns the pace of his chant, the Divine Spirit being looked to for guidance, as well as the history and details of how his practices began.
T.K.V. Desikachar used the term to describe his approach to adopting Yoga asanas for very specific needs, based on the individual's skill level, ability and possible physical limitations.
LEARNING MORE ABOUT VINIYOGA
Often taught on a one-on-one basis, Viniyoga places emphasis on Pranayama, and smooth coordination of breath with movement. This Yoga style is known for its therapeutic application of the classical Yoga asanas, and many look to this style while recovering from an injury, surgery or who have health concerns.
Founder of the American Viniyoga Institute, Gary Kraftsow is a respected authority on this style, and his teachings both in the studio and at retreats, and in book and DVD form, are excellent.
There are two studies Gary Kraftsow contributed to for the National Institute of Health Studies: "Evaluating Yoga for Chronic Low Back Pain" and "Yoga Therapy for Generalized Anxiety". The methods of Viniyoga are beneficial to both of those health concerns, among many others.
Referred to as "the future of Yoga in North America", Viniyoga has long been a popular choice for Yogis in Europe. The liberating aspect of not competing with an ideal type or even with your neighbor is one of the most loved aspects of this practice.
VINIYOGA CLASSES
Some studios do offer group Viniyoga classes. They do focus on the needs of the individuals even though they are not specifically teaching one-on-one.
All Yoga styles share the same philosophy and practice basically the same asanas. What makes Viniyoga unique is the emphasis on becoming aware of the breath as a guide for how to continue your practice.
Our breath is an accurate gauge of our physical, mental and emotional state, and by learning how to use that as an indication of how to proceed with our asanas - or which ones in particular to use - we can in effect heal our bodies and minds.
The smooth, fluid motions that are typical of Viniyoga can remind one of Tai Chi, and indeed this style has much in common with that ancient practice. What is unique about Viniyoga is that it always stresses focusing on the here and now of your own ability without thought to where you were or where you hope to be.
By keeping your mind on the present, you can free yourself from self-imposed limitations. Thoughts of "I can't because I've gained weight" or "I can't because I am too old" and other self-defeating ideas can be driven away and so the way to beneficial progress is paved.
FOR FURTHER READING:
"Yoga For Wellness" and "Yoga For Transformation"
both titles by Gary Kraftsow
"The Viniyoga of Yoga: Applying Yoga for Healthy Living"
by T.K.V. Desikachar with Kausthub Desikachar & Frans Moors
DVDs FOR HOME PRACTICE:
"Viniyoga Therapy for Low Back, Sacrum and Hips"
"Viniyoga Therapy for Upper Back, Neck and Shoulders"
Both authored by Gary Kraftsow and available through the American Viniyoga Institute online
