Viniyoga is a Tradition Developed by Gary Kraftsow

Gary Kraftsow studied for about ten years with Krishnamacharya and his son, Desikachar.  They then told him he was to complete his studies in anatomy and physiology at the University.  Gary remembers saying, “I don’t want to teach science I want to teach yoga.”  He was told it was his path to combine the science of the West with their teachings of yoga. 

Gary Kraftsow has written two books about Viniyoga..  The first book, “Yoga for Wellness”,  is a summary of case histories for various conditions.  The second book, “Yoga for Transformation”, by Gary Kraftsow emphasizes the deeper meditative aspects of yoga.  The focus of Viniyoga is to respect each unique individual and fit the yoga practice to the individual. The structure of each person is unique and this unique structure is further amplified by our life experiences.  For example, some people have flat upper backs and some have rounded upper backs, so poses that emphasize that part of the back will be adapted for each pose, so each person will benefit.  The practice of Viniyoga helps you to discover yourself.

Viniyoga encourages you to feel the movement of the body as you explore the benefit of the experience.  The repeated movement in and out of poses allows the body to “warm up to the experience” and DISCOVER new ways of being present with the pose.  Repeated movements also benefit by increasing circulation into specific areas of the body.  In addition to repeated movements there are a variety of ways to hold the body in the pose to experience additional benefits of opening and relaxing our body.  Viniyoga provides numerous experiences of each pose.

Breath is an integral part of Viniyoga.  The experience of the body is affected by the length of the breath while moving in and out of the pose and holding the pose for a specific number of breaths.  Learning to be present with the breath brings focus to the practice and is calming to the mind.  Many students report a sense of serenity and peace after the practice.  Keeping the mind focused on the breath can reduce stress.  Viniyoga adapts the breath to fit your specific needs.

Breath is an integral part of Viniyoga. 

We hope you will be interested in exploring the benefits of Viniyoga!!!