The word Vinyasa means “breath-synchronised movement”. In other words, the teacher will instruct you to move from one pose to the next on a inhale or an exhale. The reason why this technique is called “Vinyasa Flow” is because of the smooth way the poses are linked together and become like a dance. This style allows for a variety of movement and will almost certainly include a form of Sun Salutations, not just stretching. The class could be fast or slow, and includes alignment orientation.

Vinyasa’s strength is in its diversity. There is no single philosophy, rulebook, or sequence that teachers must follow. This makes it essential that you find a teacher you enjoy and can relate to! If you enjoy a steady energy flow through asanas then Vinyasa is probably right for you.

Kripalu Yoga is a comprehensive disciplined approach to self-study that cultivates health, facilitates psychological growth, and transforms one’s sense of self. Kripalu Yoga arises from thousands of years of study and practice in fostering spiritual connection to all life and an awakening to the authentic self. It focuses on getting in touch with one’s own innate wisdom and happiness through cultivating nonjudgmental awareness. Teachers guide students through a practice of asana (which could be gentle, moderate or vigorous), pranayama, and meditation, but neither posture sequences nor instructions are standardized.

What distinguishes a Kripalu Yoga class is an emphasis on bringing awareness to the physical sensations, emotions, and thoughts that arise throughout the practice. The way we act and react on the mat becomes a microcosm for the way we act and react in daily life, leading to greater authenticity, equanimity and happiness