Catch your breath with yoga flow

The origins of yoga flow

Yoga flow is a dynamic form of yoga that consists of a series of fluid movements synchronized with conscious breathing that incorporates meditation and circulates your energies. This combination nourishes the body, soul and spirit. Thus, we will delve into the deep roots of this discipline, discover its principles and its benefits. 

The foundations of yoga

Yoga originated in ancient India more than 5,000 years ago. Initially, yoga was taught as a spiritual and philosophical discipline and was mainly focused on meditation and the search for enlightenment. Then, to access deep meditation, practitioners prepared their bodies and minds with different sitting or lying postures. 

The emergence of vinyasa yoga

One of the precursor branches of yoga flow is hatha yoga because this style of yoga emphasizes thebalance between body and mind by calling on asanas and breathing techniques. But, within hatha yoga is the component of Vinyasa which consists of synchronize movement with breathing.

However, the approach we know today to yoga flow is different and has emerged recently. Indeed, it was in the 1930s thanks to the father of modern yoga, Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya that yoga flow evolved. Indeed, he added sequences of fluid movements between postures. 

The fusion of movement and meditation

Modern yoga flow began to take shape between the 1980s and 1990s. It was thanks to teachers like Shiva Rea or Seane Corn who integrated fluid movement sequences into their classes that yoga flow became popular. But also because they highlighted the importance of meditation and mindfulness. 

The principles of yoga flow

Yoga flow is a fusion of meditation, movement and breathing. As seen previously, yoga flow finds its roots in the ancient traditions of yoga which is based on several fundamental principles which guide the sequences. Furthermore, it does not have to be practiced indoors, it is entirely suitable for a form of urban yoga.

Conscious and fluid movement

At the heart of the yoga flow approach is the principle of conscious and fluid movement. This transcends the simple execution of postures. It is based on the way each movement is performed in harmony with breathing. In fact, the aim is to guide the flow of energy through the body with each inhale and exhale. If this technique is used, it is because practitioners feel a natural fluidity Who eliminates tension et promotes a smooth transition between each posture.  

Cultivate presence of mind

In this principle, it is important to practice active presence since it requires full attention in the present moment. When the body moves simultaneously with the breath, the mind has no choice but to follow, eliminating thus the distractions and the concerns. Presence of mind is therefore beneficial for a deep connection with the body. In this way the yogi can rfeel every movement, every muscle used and every sensation. 

Balancing Effort and Grace

Also, practicing fluid and conscious movement allows you to achieve a balance between effort and grace. It turns out to be an effective technique for reduce excessive tension felt when complex postures are performed. Additionally, the movements become a graceful dance that promotes relaxation during exercise, which allows conserve energy and D'avoid injuries. 

A transformative experience

Mindful, flowing movement can become a transformative experience as body and mind come together and awaken vitality, foster deep connection and release tension. Also, it helps to emphasize the importance of being aware in the present moment. 

Conscious breathing

How you breathe on the mat can dramatically change your experience. This is why there is the pranayama breathing conscious in yoga flow. The breath is used as a powerful tool to connect body and mind by directing it intentionally. 

Synchronize movement with breathing

If conscious breathing is used with the aim of synchronize movements with breathing. Furthermore, the regular rhythm of breathing calms the mind and guides movement so that transitions between postures are fluid. 

Victorious breathing

In yoga flow, victorious breathing is a commonly used technique. It's about a deep, controlled breathing passing through the nose and slightly contracting the throat in order to create a sound similar to a whisper. It is a sound that helps concentrate the mind and to focus attention on the present moment. It is also exploited for its ability to oxygenate the muscles and his feeling of inner calm. 

Awaken body awareness

Also, conscious breathing allows you toawaken body awareness. Indeed, by directing attention to each inhalation and exhalation, a An intimate understanding of how the body responds to postures and movements develops. 

Smooth transition

The principle of smooth transition allows movements to blend together, which is an essential element in yoga flow. Since unlike other styles of yoga where the postures are static, yoga flow incorporates a constant fluidity between asanas. Which means that each movement blends naturally with the next, thus creating a fluid sequence similar to conscious movement choreography. 

Consistency with the breath

Transitions are closely linked to breathing. Effectively, each movement is coordinated with a precise inspiration or expiration, which allows maintain A regular rhythm and an consistency. This combination allows the practitioner to stay anchored in the present moment and smooth transitions between poses. 

Balance between strength and softness

Movements between postures allow you to minimize shaking and strain present in the body. This helps prevent injuries and promote a feeling of softness in the movement while strengthening the muscles. 

Cultivate presence of mind and concentration

But practicing smooth transitions is demanding since it requires a concentration and an presence total. By being able to direct attention to movements, moments of transition and breathing, the practitioner finds himself deeply rooted in practice, which promotes meditation in motion which frees the mind from external distractions. 

Creativity in sequences

Unlike other styles of structured yoga, yoga flow offers a blank canvas on which teachers and practitioners can imagine their own sequences, explore different poses et create sequences which seems coherent to them. This is a real advantage since it allows adapt to different fitness levels and of meet the specific needs of each person. 

Harmonize movement and breathing

Obviously, creativity doesn't just mean stringing together random postures. Indeed, creativity must be in consistency with conscious breathing as in the restorative yoga. Harmony between movement and breathing must remain the central element of yoga flow, even in the most creative sequences. 

Exploring new paths

In yoga flow, creativity allows you to discover new postures as well asintegrate new transitions to create original sequences. Thus, practitioners learn to get out of their comfort zone and to overcome their limits. 

An intuitive process

Sequence creation is a intuitive process. Indeed, teachers and practitioners often draw inspiration from their state of mind at the moment, the needs of their bodies or the music. From then on, the sequences become authentic. Also, it is important to remember that the creativity of the sequences does not deny the basics of yoga nor the philosophy of yoga. It simply complements traditional teachings. 

Presence and awareness

Yoga flow invites a high presence where each gesture, each breath and each posture are executed consciously so that the practitioner immerse your mind in the present moment. 

Deep body awareness

The practice of mindfulness awakens deep body awareness. Indeed, it is by using intentional direction that the practitioner develops a intimate connection with your body. That promotes better posture, better coordination and an deep appreciation of physical sensations. 

Awaken the senses 

Yoga flow stimulates the senses which puts the practitioner in a state of receptivity to sensory experience. From then on, each muscle contraction, each stretch and each breath becomes a sensory experience. This adds a tactile dimension et kinesthetic to practice. 

Meditation in movement

Consciousness and presence in yoga flow form a meditation in motion. That is to say, each sequence becomes an opportunity to concentrate deeply by freeing the mind from its concerns. Thus, an inner tranquility sets in. 

Postures used in yoga flow

Yoga flow is characterized by a variety of postures that flow together to create a unique experience on the yoga mat. Knowing that each posture has a specific role in the sequence to strengthen, balance or stretch the body while nourishing it. So, here are the key postures in yoga flow. 

Low board

The low plank is a fundamental posture in yoga flow. She allows to strengthen the arms, THE core and the shoulders by working on control and stability. 

To perform it, place your hands below the shoulders with elbows slightly bent close to the body, legs straight and feet active. Next, contract your abdominal muscles to support the posture and form a straight line with your body. Then breathe regularly and deeply while remaining in this position.  

Downward facing dog

THE downward facing dog yoga is one of the most emblematic and most appreciated of yoga flow. Particularly for its advantages. Indeed, this posture offers a deep stretching and one upper body strengthening. 

To reproduce it, place your hands at the front of the mat with fingers apart, feet in line with hands hip-width apart. Next, engage your quadriceps to relieve hamstring tension. After which, you can release your head between your arms, relaxing your shoulders. Finally, breathe deeply, directing your breath toward the back of the rib cage as well as the lungs. 

Upward facing dog 

The upward facing dog posture symbolizes the opening, there transformation et elevation. It has many virtues such aschest and shoulder stretch, THE back strengthening and theleg and core activation. 

Start by placing your hands on the back of your shoulders, with your fingers pointing forward. Next, activate your leg muscles by stretching them backwards while keeping your toes facing the floor. Then, lift your torso by opening your chest and stretching your shoulders back. Finish by inhaling while lifting your torso, stretching your spine, looking towards the sky. 

Triangle Pose

The triangle pose embodies balance, connection and expansion between earth and sky. It also offers benefits physical such aslateral spinal stretch, THE leg strengthening et opening of the hips. 

To perform this pose, position one foot pointed forward and the other to the side. The heel of your front foot should be aligned with the middle of the arch of your back foot. Continue by tilting your torso to the side, extending the opposite arm above your head with the other arm pointing down. Then, turn your gaze upwards following the arm stretched towards the sky. Finish by inhaling while stretching upwards and exhale while leaning to the side. 

Tree pose

The posture of the tree symbolizes growth and the stability of a tree for a unique experience ofanchoring and of fluidity in the practice of yoga. This pose gives you balance and stability, a leg strengthening as well as a improvement of concentration. 

To successfully perform the posture, place one foot against the inner thigh of the other leg and engage the core muscles to support the torso and promote balance. Don't forget to choose a fixed point for your gaze. Finally, breathe deeply and regularly while maintaining posture. 

Corpse pose

Corpse pose, or savasana, is a final resting pose offering an opportunity to loosen, of cultivate your conscience and to regenerate. It allows you to relax, of reduce stress and D'improve blood circulation. 

To do it, lie on your back, arms and legs slightly apart, palms facing upwards, let your feet fall naturally to the side. Then, relax your body as much as possible from head to toe and let go of any tension and let relaxation wash over you. Focus on your breathing, feeling the air moving in and out of your body. If intrusive thoughts come to mind, accept them and return to your breathing. 

Who is yoga flow for?

Rest assured, yoga flow is for everyone! It is only regularity that will make the difference over time. Indeed, it is important to do sessions regularly so that the benefits last over time. 

The benefits

Yoga flow brings many benefits profits on all levels, here they are: 

• Muscle strengthening

• Flexibility

• Improved posture and well-being

• Stimulation of blood and respiratory circulation

• Better management of stress and anxiety

• Cultivating mindfulness

• Gaining self-confidence
• Brings personal and spiritual fulfillment
• Improves mobility

The essentials of yoga flow

Yoga flow is a form of dynamic yoga accessible to everyone. The goal of this type of yoga is to find a balance between postures, transitions, breathing and meditation. 

In addition, yoga flow is based on several concepts which are the following: 

• Conscious and fluid movement

• Conscious breathing

• Smooth transition

• Creativity in sequences

• Presence and awareness

We also saw the postures the most emblematic of yoga flow: 

• Low board

• Downward facing dog

• Upward facing dog 

• Triangle Pose

• Tree pose

• Corpse pose

Then, we finished on the benefits of this form of yoga: 

• Muscle strengthening

• Flexibility

• Improved posture and well-being

• Stimulation of blood and respiratory circulation

• Better management of stress and anxiety

• Cultivating mindfulness

• Gaining self-confidence
• Brings personal and spiritual fulfillment
• Improves mobility

Try yoga flow at POSES

Like a desire to experience yoga flow which is good for your health? That’s good, because at POSES, you will have the opportunity to test! Put yourself in the best conditions to feel the meditation and the rconscious breathing. 

THE yoga flow POSES are 50 minute sessions where you will fully feel the effects of transitions, movements et postures which will do you good. It's time to relax on some exclusive playlists as well as on a dim light so that you can concentrate as best as possible on your breathing. You will be able to completely relax thanks to our coaches. 

Come and forget your worries at POSES.