Marie’s Approach to Sivananda Yoga
Sivananda Yoga is an integrative, traditional and whole approach to yoga.
It is for all people and all body types.
Sivananda Yoga places special importance on five points:
- proper exercise (asana)
- proper breathing (pranayama)
- proper relaxation (savasana)
- proper diet (healthy eating)
- proper thinking (meditation/concentration)
Traditionally Sivananda Yoga is taught as a very meditative practice, with an emphasis on exploring postures (asanas) within the body, and on working with every individual’s safe and comfortable yogic edge.
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Performed slowly and consciously in the Sivananda style, the experience of asana goes far beyond mere physical benefits, and soon becomes a mental practice in meditation, concentration and emotional balance. We practice asana not only to strengthen the body and bring flexibility to the spine, but also to heal the body, to prevent disease and to strengthen and broaden our mental/spiritual capacities.
A Typical Sivananda Yoga Class
A Sivananda yoga class typically begins and ends in relaxation pose (savasana). Music is played during the class and students are encouraged to practice with their eyes closed to create a sense of calm and tranquility throughout the class. Closing the eyes during asana helps one to keep the energy within and find a state of deep relaxation. A Sivananda class will bring not only an hour of strength and flexibility but also an hour of deep relaxation and meditation.
For more information:
- www.sivananda.org
- Light on Life: The Yoga Journey to Wholeness, Inner Peace and Ultimate Freedom by B.K.S. Iyengar
- Jivamukti Yoga: Practices for Liberating Body and Soul by Sharon Gannon and David Life
- The Essential Yoga Sutra: Ancient Wisdom for Your Yoga by Geshe Michael Roach and Lama Christy McNally
- The Tibetan Book of Yoga: Ancient Buddhist Teachings on the Philosophy and Practice of Yoga by Geshe Michael Roach and Lama Christy McNally
- Hatha Yoga: The Hidden Language, Symbols, Secrets and Metaphors by Swami Sivananda Radha
