SIVANANDA STYLE
This is a system based on a five-point philosophy that focuses on
*proper exercise (asana)
*propee breathing (pranayama)
*proper relaxation (savasana)
*proper diet (vegetarianism)
*positive thinking, meditation (vedanta e meditation)
It is a methodic practice, a class is composed by Pranayama, Sun salutation, and the 12 basic pose
We start with 15-20 minutes breathing exercise to clean the respiratory sistem, to strenghten it and to acquire more and more capacity to breathe properly, then follow the basic Asanas:
Headstand (Sirshasana)
Shoulderstand (Sarvangasana)
Plough (Halasana)
Fish (Matsyasana)
Sitting Forward bend (Paschimothanasana)
Cobra (Bhujangasana)
Locust (Shalabhasana)
Bow (Dhanurasana)
Spinal twist (Ardha Matsyendrasana)
Crow (Kakasana) or Peacock (Mayurasana)
Standing forward bend (Pada Hasthasana)
Triangle (Trikonasana)
And final relaxation in Savasana, supine position where we let the body rest, and feel the benefit of the practice.
The focus is on mastering the basic asanas from which variations are then added to further deepen the practice. The asanas follow an exact order that allows for the systematic movement of every major part of the body in a balanced way that enhances prana or life force energy, keeping the mind quiet and without the need to think beyond each individual pose.
It is a method that allows the teacher to follow the students with full attention, and guide them to understand the effects of each position in the body-mind. It is full of therapeutical information about each asana, and this can be useful for yoga therapy.
This style of Yoga can really help the practicioner to learn from the base the most important positions, that work on a phisical, energetical, mental and spiritual level. If practiced with constancy and positive atitude, this method can really bring out our inner and phisical strenght.
See the main page for all the classes of Yoga