|
Viniyoga
Viniyoga is a term that refers to the incorporation of several elements of
yoga to develop a practice specific to the needs of the practicing individual.
Viniyoga is unlike other forms of yoga because of:
· its emphasis on linking breath and movement
· its use of adaptations in asana, or postures
In viniyoga, breath and movement link together as a means to move the body
and calm the mind. In Viniyoga, the breath leads the body into and out of each
posture. Unlike other yoga forms, Viniyoga does not bother with precise exercises;
rather, it aims to develop a balanced practice unique to each student. Every
student should practice each asana according to his or her own individual needs
and abilities. This means that viniyoga is highly adaptable. Postures can be
changed to accommodate the unique physical abilities and situation of each student.
The individualization of the student’s own personal yoga practice can include
the addition to or incorporation of:
· Meditation
· Chanting
· Prayer
· Ritual
Viniyoga students are taught to make their yoga practice their own. Viniyoga
recognizes the diverse nature of student needs, and allows for modification
so that each student can embark on his or her own unique path to spiritual awakening.
Viniyoga students typically work with viniyoga teachers. However, unlike teachers
of other disciplines of yoga, who must teach students proper techniques to achieve
the aims of that particular yoga practice, viniyoga teachers help design personalized
yoga practices so that every student can achieve his or her own spiritual, physical
and mental goals through a highly individualized yoga practice. The teacher
can also modify these practices to correspond with the changing needs of the
student.
Sri T. Krishnamacharya is credited with the teaching of Viniyoga. Krishnamacharya,
a descendant of the legendary 9th century yogi Nathamuni, developed Viniyoga
after a lifetime of studying Patanjali's Yoga Sutras.
|
