Is Hatha Vinyasa Yoga the right practice for me?

The benefits of yoga go well beyond stretching, strengthening and toning the body.  Yoga brings holistic health benefits, reaching all body systems and promoting a state of inner connectedness, mental calm and emotional stability. If you’re unfamiliar with yoga, that may seem too good to be true. In fact it’s true that pretty much anyone and everyone can benefit from this ancient practice. Of course, as with almost anything, the more open minded you are and the more willing to give yourself to yoga, the more you will benefit.

So, having decided that yoga is for you, the question is then: which style of yoga? When searching for classes you are likely to come across many classes offering the Hatha Vinyasa style of yoga, currently enjoying popularity and prevalence. You can certainly find many classes offering this style in Barcelona.

What is Hatha Vinyasa Yoga?

Hatha Vinyasa Yoga combines two different disciplines. Vinyasa means “breath-synchronized movement”. Hatha is the union of “ha,” meaning sun, and “tha,” meaning moon and denotes the force of determined strength and effort required to unify opposing forces and bring together the body and the mind.

Hatha Vinyasa yoga is a combination of vinyasas (a series of connected movements through breath), asanas (poses), pranayamas (conscious breathing), meditation and relaxation.

A Hatha Vinyasa class consists of steady and flowing movement from pose to pose in a sequences of movements synchronized with breath, often pausing to hold poses for various lengths of time. Hatha Vinyasa therefore builds strength and flexibility through movement, while the conscious rythmic flow of the breath helps boost energy and health. Stillness (holding the poses) promotes focused mind and mental calm.

Is Hatha Vinyasa for me?

If you want a more active type of yoga, then yes. Strengthening and improving flexibility through postures, stretches and movements are a core part of the Hatha Vinyasa style. While there is a degree of intensity to this style of yoga, classes will respect the limits and capacities of every student and you will be encouraged to push yourself safely and within your own parameters. Make sure you choose the right level for you based on your own yoga experience.

Another important point to remember is that much of what you get out of the Hatha Vinyasa style will also depend on the individual teacher, as each teacher will  design the sequences differently, based on their own practice, training and experience. Thus every class will have its own particular rythm and personality. Some Hatha Vinyasa classes are more relaxing while others are more dynamic. So you may want to try different classes with different teachers to see what works best for you.

Where can I practice Hatha Vinyasa yoga in Barcelona?

Yoga and Yoga Barcelona offers Hatha Vinyasa classes for groups and individuals. They aim to guide every student individually so they can learn and develop at their own pace. You can try a class for 5€ or a month for 25 €. Beginners are recommended to start off with a level 1 class. There is also the option to try an open level class if you are unsure. Check the website for more information about class levels, schedule and general advice.

Yoga Studio Barcelona offers Hatha Vinyasa classes as well as other branches of the Hatha style of yoga. In addition to the regular classes, they offer introduction courses. These are individualized programs that include a high level of personal attention to each student. Perfect for newbies. See the website for class timetable and information about upcoming activities, courses and workshops.

Yogaroom Barcelona offer regular vinyasa flow classes, monthly beginner’s courses and many other activities. They also organize regular retreats and workshops to help deepen your understanding of yoga.

If you are in good physical shape, Vinyasa classes at Yogalinda may be ideal for you. The classes are intermediate level due to their strong emphasis on strength.  Be prepared to sweat!