Yoga

Choose a style that suits you, there are quite a few to choose from. But for now Crystal Earth NZ will concentrate on just two types, Yin and Vinyasa :-

Yin Yoga – a restorative style that enables you to get into the fascia and connective tissue. Yin yoga is a slow-paced style of yoga with postures, or asanas, that are held for longer periods of time—for beginners, it may range from 45 seconds to two minutes; more advanced practitioners may stay in one asana for five minutes or more.

Some of the benefits of Yin yoga are:

• Calming and balancing to the mind and body
• Regulates energy in the body
• Increases mobility in the body, especially the joints and hips
• Lowering of stress levels
• Greater stamina
• Better lubrication and protection of joints
• More flexibility in joints & connective tissue
• Release of fascia throughout the body
• Help with TMJ and migraines
• Deeper Relaxation
• A great coping for anxiety and stress
• Better ability to sit for meditation
• Ultimately you will have a better Yang practice

If you take a peek at a Yin-Yang symbol, it is suggesting that no matter what, we should take a “tiny bit” and put it in the heart of its opposite.

Yin yoga teaches you how to really listen, to your body and tune in. Yin is such a great compliment to other styles of yoga and your own personal life, because it brings long periods of time in an uncomfortable position, which then asks you to learn to “be” to “accept what is” in that given moment. Something we can all benefit from daily.

Vinyasa Flow

Whether you’re just starting out with yoga, or you’re looking to try something new, there are lots of great reasons to try Vinyasa—which is one of the most popular styles among yogis of all experience levels.

1. You stay focused by going with the flow.

You’ve probably heard the phrase “Vinyasa Flow” when referring to this type of yoga. Vinyasa Flow refers to the way this style keeps you moving from asana to asana, linking each pose to an inhale and an exhale.

Instructors keep the flow of movements smooth and continuous, which can help you stay present during the session. If you find your mind wandering off in the down-time between poses or sequences, Vinyasa yoga is for you.

2. It’s all about variety.

Vinyasa has a lot in common with Ashtanga yoga, which also links continuous sequence through the breath. But while Ashtanga uses a proscribed sequence of poses that’s taught the same way in every class, Vinyasa is a lot more flexible.

Instructors are totally free to mix up the order of the poses, or throw in something new and unexpected. This “no rules” approach to yoga means you’ll never fall into the slump that can set in when you repeat the same routine over and over.

3. You can find your perfect yoga class.

Since there are no set-in-stone rules about how to conduct a Vinyasa class, teachers can incorporate whatever they choose into the class—including different styles of yoga, a thematic music playlist, or a relaxing nature soundtrack.

Best of all, if one class doesn’t click with you, the next one might be just your cup of tea. With Vinyasa yoga, you can shop around to find the perfect class for you.

4. It pushes you to your limits.

Though “Vinyasa Flow” might sound easy and relaxing, this style can seriously push your physical limits.

This style incorporates elements from all schools of yoga, so even if you’ve mastered those Iyengar standing poses, you’ll find yourself in all new territory when the instructors throws in a Anusara inversion. You’ll push the limits of your strength, flexibility, and balance with Vinyasa yoga.

5. It gives you great cardio.

Cardio is an important part of any fitness routine. The continuous sequence of Vinyasa yoga is great for getting your heart going, even when the pace is relatively slow. The only ‘break’ you’ll get is in resting poses like Downward Dog, which will lead right into another, more challenging pose.

This style of yoga is great for working up a sweat.

6. It’s perfect for beginners.

Since Vinyasa is so diverse, it’s easy to find classes tailored specifically to beginners that will still provide a healthy challenge. This style is also a great way to learn the basics of pranayama, or yogic breathing, since the instructor will tell you when to inhale and exhale during each pose.

This style is a great way to learn the skills you need to build a strong foundation for a more advanced yoga practice.

7. Vinyasa is fun!

With the flowing movements and great music usually playing in class, this style feels like a dance! Just about everyone looks super graceful practicing Vinyasa yoga, and there’s no better feeling than seeing yourself flow into the perfect warrior pose in the mirror.