Intermediate SequencesBy adding challenging postures to the beginning sequences, these posture flows are the most complex, vigorous and long. For more intermediate level sequences, check out the Sun Salutations and the Special Sequences sections. For more beginning level sequences, check out the Sun Salutations and the Special Sequences sections. Sun SalutationsOften considered the core of hatha yoga practice, Sun Salutations are traditionally practiced at sunrise to warm and energize the body. Thus, Pranyama is used to control, cultivate, and modify the Prana in the body. Prana translates into "life force energy" and Yama translates into "control or mastery of". Prana is taken in through the air we breathe, and since the pranayama exercises increase the amount of air we take in, they also increase our intake of Prana. Yoga TherapyYoga Therapy is the use of yoga postures, meditation and pranayama to help the body naturally heal and balance itself. As Bhagavad Gita puts it, "yoga is the journey of the self, to the self, through the self." Yoga combines strength and flexibility exercises along with relaxation and meditation. In bringing yoga to diverse and global audiences, Swami Vishnudevananda kept in mind the lifestyle needs in current times, so he adapted the ancient wisdom of yoga into five basic principles: Proper Exercise (Āsana), Proper Breathing (Prāṇāyāma), Proper Relaxation (Śavāsana), Proper Diet (Vegetarian) and Positive Thinking & Meditation (Vedānta & Dhyāna).

Celebrations to Swami Vishudevananda 60th year of work in the world (1957 - 2017) Swami Sivananda send Swami Vishnu to the West in 1957 with 10 rupees and the words "People are Waiting". Pranayama combines the words ‘Prana’, referred to as the ‘life force’ and ‘Ayama’ which is outlined as ‘to lengthen or to work on it’. While you are practicing pranayama, let go of any thoughts by focusing on the breathing involved with the pranayama. Ashtanga. A series of poses combined with a special breathing technique. Special SequencesLooking for something different? Energy AnatomyThe foundation of all life, of the whole universe, is the subtle life force energy the yogis call ‘prana.’ This mystical energy flows through our bodies and generates our every action - from gross physical movements to minute biochemical processes.Hatha and Tantra yogas have developed a rich description of the anatomy of the subtle or energy body, including the different types of energies, the nadi energy channels and chakra energy centers. These sequences are designed for specific applications, using combinations of yoga postures for their effects on the physical, mental, emotional and energetic bodies. Certain yogic practices have been shown to have specific healing qualities in addition to yoga’s inherent ability to create wellness and good health.

Practicing yoga helps build healthy virtues and good values, such as discipline, honesty, devotion, self-inquiry, mindfulness, and non-attachment. The sympathetic nervous system triggers a stress response, while the parasympathetic helps restore the body. It helps increase the vital capacity of the lungs and keeps asthma and other lung diseases at bay. By focusing on positive images and emotions, individuals can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, and increase their overall sense of well-being. Yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation can reduce stress, promote healing, increase energy, decrease adverse treatment effects, and enhance quality-of-life for patients with cancer. This includes eating a healthy and balanced diet, practicing meditation and mindfulness, cultivating a positive and compassionate mindset, adhering to the yamas and niyamas, and creating a calming home environment. Meditation BasicsMeditation is a focusing of the mind on a single object, creating the cessation of all thought. The benefits of a regular meditation practice include reduction of stress, tension, anxiety and frustration, as well as improved memory, concentration, inner peace and whole body well-being. The techniques of meditation are simple and easy to learn, but the ability to keep the mind focused takes time, patience and practice.

PracticeYoga for BeginnersOur Yoga for Beginners guide will give you the basic tips, guidelines and recommendations you will need to start a successful yoga practice. What is normally thought of as "yoga" in the West is really Hatha Yoga, what is yoga one of the many paths of yoga. Hatha classes today are a classic approach to breathing and exercises. PranayamaPranayama are breathing exercises developed by the ancient yogis for purification. Depending on the severity of your anxiety symptoms, pranayama that encourages deeper, steadier breathing patterns, such as Ujjayi breath, may be more suitable. Your vinyasa flow classes may vary depending on what yoga system or class you’re taking: Hatha, Iyengar or Ashtanga. What will work best for you depends on various factors, including what type of results you’re looking to achieve. Yet there is a multitude of philosophical ideas developed by looking into the deeper dimensions of the body, mind and spirit. Philosophy of YogaThe main philosophy of yoga is simple: mind, body and spirit are all one and cannot be clearly separated.