Style Spotlight: YINYASA with Alison
In conversation with Alison:
In your own words, how would describe the style of your class?
I like to think of Yinyasa as low and slow, with some flow! It even rhymes. But Yinyasa is a hybrid practice, based on classes my teacher Theresa used to teach, where we combine yin (poses are generally lower to the ground, long holds, focus on the connective tissue) with vinyasa/flow (more fluidity and movement). The class is a bit more quiet and contemplative than usual, but there is still emphasis on anatomy and alignment, like any OTY class.
What do you like about teaching this style?
My favorite thing is helping students how to be ok with more stillness and quiet in their lives. It is really fun to see students perspectives shift that yoga is not all about fast and hard—but there is a slower side that gets missed and is just as important. Plus, slower and lower is not necessarily easier! I enjoy helping students learn to be more comfortable with doing things (even their yoga practice) in a different way. It is also how I typically practice these days, so it feels really fun and natural for me to teach this style.
What do you like about practicing this style?
Slower practices are my medicine. I need them and crave them. It wasn't always that way! Styles like this used to be really challenging for me. So I am proof that your body and mind can change with time and consistency. And I love this style because you still get to move around—just in a different way. I'm really active outside of yoga so this practice is really therapeutic for my body and mind. I have an edge about me that Yinyasa helps to soften.
Why do you think students should practice this style?
We ALL need to slow down! Our culture is so obsessed with hustle and grind, so I think this style is just one way to show that its ok to move more slowly, to strive less, and to just be. I also think the physical benefits on the fascia that yin/Yinyasa provides is invaluable to all of us.
In conversation with Amy:
How would you describe this style of class?
Yinyasa, as Alison always says, is a low, slow flow. It combines the longer holds of yin with the flow of vinyasa. For me, it is just the right balance of effort and ease that always sounds good on a Sunday morning. I would describe it as a slower-paced (but not necessarily easier) class that I know I will leave feeling great.
Why do you practice this style?
I think we started this style during the pandemic, when everyone needed something to help them chill -- at least I did. I have continued to practice because yinyasa feels good in my body; it is less jarring than a fast-paced vinyasa class, but it challenges me in other ways. Often the challenge for me is practicing stillness in a longer hold, but I appreciate the opportunity to work on being deliberate and thoughtful. Plus the class is always different, so it stays interesting and fun.