As promised, here is a brief explanation of what is meant by the term “Sivananda yoga.” First of all, it is not a different style of yoga. It is traditional hatha yoga, as taught by Swami Sivananda (1887-1963) and his disciple Swami Vishnudevananda (1927-1993).
As a physical practice, it is a set sequence of:
- opening relaxation in savasana (corpse pose)
- 3 warm-ups: pranayama (breathing exercises), sun salutations & leg raises
- 12 basic asanas (postures), plus variations of these postures
- and final relaxation, including progressive muscle relaxation and/or autosuggestion
The postures are practiced each time in the same order, with a brief rest in between postures to relax the body and refocus the mind. Repetition of the same sequence with each practice helps us to refine and progress in the postures, both physically and mentally.
The sequence (see chart below) is suitable for all levels, as the postures can readily be adapted for beginners and more experienced students. For example, practice of headstand can begin with dolphin pose; practice of shoulderstand can begin with legs-up-the-wall pose. Each posture has variations to meet the practitioner where he/she is at. The student progresses at his/her own rate, practicing with a balance of ease and effort, avoiding strain and force. The focus in the postures is on maintaining a deep, steady breath and mental concentration, rather than on ‘achieving’ a certain form with the body.
The physical aspect of yoga is but one part of a broader yoga practice. Swami Vishnudevananda taught that yoga includes five main principles:
- proper exercise (asana – practicing the postures)
- proper breathing (pranayama)
- proper relaxation
- proper diet
- and positive thinking and meditation.
The physical practice is essentially a preparation and a support for the mental and spiritual aspects of yoga practice. A Sivananda yoga class will approach the postures with this perspective. Yes, we are stretching and strengthening the body, but this is not the only aim; we are preparing the body and mind for meditation and, ultimately, for union with our own Soul (note that yoga in Sanskrit means union).
And where might you find a Sivananda yoga class in the area? Fortunately, you have several options! Here are the ones I know from personal experience:
1/ You are most welcome to join me at Vraie Nature Yoga & Mo/uvement in Chelsea, Wednesday mornings from 9:30-11:00am.
2/ I am offering a 12-week session at the Centre Meredith in Chelsea on Sunday mornings, 8:30-10:00am, starting Sunday, September 23.
3/ Michael Hutkins teaches Sivananda classes from his home in Cantley and also in a few spots in Ottawa.
4/ And there is the Sivananda Yoga Camp/Ashram in Val Morin, Quebec, near Montreal. A wonderful spot to visit to immerse yourself in the practice.
If you know of other local Sivananda offerings, please feel free to list them in the comments section below.
(You can find a more detailed explanation of Sivananda yoga here: http://www.sivananda.org/)