Yoga Synthesis - An Integrative Approach to Yoga
Yoga has many facets and traditional practices such as postural routines, breathing techniques, relaxation and meditation, which have been handed down over time through various schools and teachers. Yoga Synthesis integrates elements from a number of traditions in a creative and diverse approach to Hatha Yoga. Our aim is to acknowledge and apply the different facets of the jewel of yoga for the full benefit of each practitioner.
Yoga Synthesis classes apply fundamental principles of body mechanics, good alignment, intelligent postural sequencing, breathing techniques, internal awareness and focused intention. A variety of yoga techniques, including dynamic movement synchronized with breath, static holding of postures emphasizing proper engagement and alignment, as well as passive releasing and relaxing supported poses are combined for a creative, well-rounded yoga experience. The main yoga schools we draw inspiration from are listed below, as a way of giving a little background information for those who are interested.
Classical Hatha Yoga
Shivananda Yoga, Integral Yoga and the Himalayan Institute are examples of Hatha Yoga schools which are more traditional or “Classical”, following a comprehensive framework for the practice and tending to be softer with less dynamic movement than some of the other styles listed below.
Krishnamacharya Yoga
Krishnamacharya, and his son TKV Desikachar, developed a breath-centered style called Viniyoga or Vinyasa Krama. This approach uses breath and movement synchronization in flowing sequences, either flowing back and forth between poses or linking longer series of poses that facilitate conditioning and help to deepen your flexibility and mindful breathing.
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
Ashtanga is a dynamic practice form taught by the late K. Pattabhi Jois (based on teachings from his teacher Krishnamacharya). It is an athletic practice with a number of postural sequences that follow a set formulation. Ashtanga is known for being a strong flowing practice which leads a practitioner to some of the deepest Hatha Yoga Postures. It is the source of the modern “Vinyasa Flow” style yoga.
Iyengar Yoga
From the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar, Iyengar Yoga is informed by precision and alignment using yoga props to make difficult poses more accessible and train correct actions. Iyengar Yoga is also known for its therapeutic applications. Restorative Yoga is a form, developed in Iyengar Yoga, using supported, restful postures to allow practitioners to have a relaxing, recuperative experience while doing subtle forms of classical poses. Iyengar also developed the “Wall Rope” yoga applications used at our studio.
Anusara Yoga
Anusara yoga is an alignment-based school developed by John Friend. It is derived from Iyengar Yoga and integrates the idea of universal alignment principles with Kashmiri Shaivite Tantric philosophy.
Kundalini Yoga
A dynamic energy-based form of Yoga taught by Yogi Bhajan, known for its fast movement, breath forms and chanting. Kundalini Yoga cultivates awareness of energy centers and channels throughout the body by using specific postures, breathwork, mudras and mantras. Yogi Bhajan formulated hundreds of breath and movement sets called “Kriyas”, designing each one with specific desired effects in mind. The faster-paced movements associated with Kundalini Yoga are intended to stimulate and awaken inner energy and vitality throughout the body in a mindful and relaxed way.
Yin Yoga
Yin Yoga is a form of Hatha Yoga derived from Taoist stretching practices. Paulie Zink, who had studied with a Taoist master, was the first American to the use the name Yin Yoga. The spread of Yin Yoga in the Western yoga world is attributed to Paul Grilley, Bernie Clark, Sarah Powers and others. Yin Yoga emphasizes long held, passive postures to give a deep stretch to connective tissues of the body and allow the body’s energy pathways (or meridians) to open. In a Yin Yoga practice, you can experience deep myofascial release and a calm meditative atmosphere.
At Yoga Synthesis, we honor and respect the various traditional styles and methods of Yoga, acknowledging that each has something important to offer. In general you will find a blend of the forms mentioned above unless the class description specifically indicates differently. We see the different schools as representing different aspects of a whole well-rounded yoga experience, which is why we call it Yoga Synthesis!
Yoga Synthesis Philosophy - Transformation through Yoga
Yoga practices, as a whole, can help you on the path to transforming your body and mind, supporting your commitment to personal health and wellness. When traditional yoga is approached with an integrative modern sensibility, it is made accessible to everyone. We encourage focused and deliberate engagement along with enjoying the process, knowing that change both physical and emotional, happens in the long-term. We encourage continuing education, personal growth and supportive community for students and yoga teachers from all backgrounds. We understand that everyone’s circumstance and body is unique and that the practice of yoga should be tailored to the individual. Physically, a yoga practice is about enhancing or maintaining strength, mobility and balance, not about pushing harder to try to achieve crazy poses.