Vinyasa (pronounced "vin-yah-sah") is a Sanskrit word for a phrase that roughly translates as "to place in a special way" referring—in hatha yoga—to a sequence of poses. Vinyasa Flow classes are moderately vigorous and feature fluid movements that are connected through breath.

 

Yin and Yang are concepts which describe the two relative qualities present in everything. Yin is more internal, passive, cooling and downward. Yang is more external, dynamic, warming and upward. Yang Yoga refers to a more active practice that works on the muscles and blood flow, building strength, stamina and flexibility. Yang styles of yoga are those with rhythm and repetition, like Vinyasa Flow.

 

Vinyasa teachers sequence their classes to smoothly transition from pose to pose, with the intention of linking breath to movement, and often play music to keep things lively. The intensity of the practice is moderate to vigorous, and no two vinyasa classes are the same. If you loathe routine and love to test your physical limits, a Vinyasa Flow class might just be your cup of tea!