Do you ever have those days when you walk into a yoga class (or any other workout) and know that it’s going to be one of those off days? I mostly do Bikram Yoga, so my bad days kind of start like this – from the moment I wake up I debate for 10 minutes in my head whether or not I want to go before I finally drag my lazy butt out of bed. As I drive to class I am still having this ongoing debate in my head, but somehow convince myself that I’ll feel great afterwards. I walk into the yoga room and start feeling lightheaded and get that inkling of a headache. Uh-oh, I already know it’s going to be a long 1.5 hours, but I can’t leave now! I have trouble breathing from the first pose and my balance is even worse than usual. (more…)
Vinyasa Yoga
There are many different types of yoga out there, but all seek the same goal – to interconnect the body, mind, and soul.
Today’s spotlight is on Vinyasa yoga – the first one I discovered. My first attempts at yoga were done in the Ashtanga Vinyasa style at a studio called Yoga Shakti in the OC. It completely shattered my preconceived image of what I thought yoga would be like. I thought yoga would be slow, tedious, holding poses… and I was both right and wrong.
“Vinyasa” is a sanskrit word that refers to breath and movement. It is a broader term for the types of yoga done in a series of flow-like movements where your breath and movements are synchronized. These movements connect you from posture to posture, so you are moving in fluid motions during the entire yoga experience. It provides a cardio-like effect, bringing your heart rate up while still engaging your muscles and giving you a good stretch. Trust me, you will sweat and you will be sore the next day, and you will love it.
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