VINYASA — GÉRARD ARNAUD METHOD
Yoga is not necessarily static. Some lineages are practised in a seated and stable position, but Vinyasa is a dynamic form of yoga. Postures flow from one to the next with fluidity and lightness, precisely synchronised with the breath.
Moving through postures — sometimes at a sustained pace — is never done at the expense of accuracy and precision. Although this form of Vinyasa is accessible to everyone and can be adapted to each person’s body, it nevertheless requires a sound understanding of the fundamentals before moving into fast sequences of Surya Namaskar (“Sun Salutations”, which are an integral part of Vinyasa practice).
This is the form of yoga most widely taught at FM Flow.
For beginners, an introductory Vinyasa Flow class is also available.
YIN YOGA
Combining postural yoga with traditional Chinese medicine and drawing on Taoist principles, Yin Yoga works primarily on connective tissues — fascia, ligaments and joint capsules — rather than on muscular strengthening.
Mostly practised on the floor, the movements are slow and gentle, and postures are held for long periods, generally between 6 and 8 minutes. This form of yoga turns the attention inward and encourages activation of the parasympathetic nervous system.
A wide range of props is used, including bolsters, blocks, straps and blankets, to make it easier to let go and to settle correctly into the postures.
Its apparent simplicity is deceptive. Where Vinyasa emphasises movement and dynamism, Yin Yoga explores stillness, release and depth. Concentration is just as necessary as surrender. It is not an easier or more accessible form of yoga; the work is simply different.
WHAT ELSE ?
Since yoga swept across the Western world, countless forms have appeared. Public interest shows no sign of fading, and new variations seem to emerge almost every day.
Alongside the major schools and traditions — Hatha, Iyengar, Ashtanga, Sivananda, Vinyasa, Jivamukti, Kundalini and others — there are hundreds more: Bikram, eye yoga, chair yoga, children’s yoga, prenatal yoga, acroyoga, women’s yoga, nude yoga, beer yoga, goat yoga — respectively involving beer and goats…
FM Flow teaches Vinyasa and Yin, but that certainly does not mean that the rest of the yoga world is of no interest to us. We remain curious and attentive to what is happening throughout this vast universe.
The best yoga is the one that suits you, speaks to you and moves you deeply. Fortunately, there are many passionate teachers who are genuinely committed to their practice, in every school and tradition.
There is no need for rivalry between schools — or temples. Try everything, and look down on no one.
