I have started a vinyasa flow practice and have been doing it for a couple of weeks. I am unable to get into a schedule. I have read in a couple of places where it should be done everyday, except Saturdays and during the new/full moon phases.
Any insights on how often to practice? I have not become complacent, just a little tired for a couple of days. Thanks.
Dear Iflatus,
Welcome to the forum!
Vinyasa is quire invigorate style:) good for you that you can keep up with it. I wont recommend to do full class if you feel tired. I have not heard any specifics on how often it SHOULD be practiced. I try to do my hatha practice every day ( for over 10 years) and length and intensity of asana part depends only on what I feel like doing right now. It is good to push yourself over the limit sometimes, but remember the first yama AHIMSA - no harm, including no harm to your body.
Sometimes I can practice meditation and asanas one hr in the morning, in the evening and at midnight. And on some days I just do my breathing and meditation + few asanas.
Remember, that YOGA teaches us to be in the union with the body. So, only you can set up a proper schedule for yourself. [U]consistency is the key![/U]
[QUOTE=inflatus;61358]I have started a vinyasa flow practice and have been doing it for a couple of weeks. I am unable to get into a schedule. I have read in a couple of places where it should be done everyday, except Saturdays and during the new/full moon phases.
Any insights on how often to practice? I have not become complacent, just a little tired for a couple of days. Thanks.[/QUOTE]
Reference this thread for similar:http://www.yogaforums.com/forums/f16/time-of-day-you-practice-8097.html#post59816
I practice vinyasa flow and I practice it 4 days a week. I have never heard anything about having to practice everyday. I usually go monday, wednesday, Thursday, Saturday. I sometimes replace days if I have something going on or Im feeling sore or tired.
Some of what you state sounds like parameters in the Ashtanga system of asana practice. I’m not an ashtanga practitioner or teacher so I can’t offer more in that regard.
Generally speaking the practice of yoga should be one that leads the practitioner to a deep relationship with self, others and cosmos. A daily practice, in that context, is not only very “nice” some grow to consider it essential to well being. However not because it’s “exercise” to the body - though that is very valuable (and even requisite).
If you are not moved to practice every day then for you practicing everyday would be aggravating. It would come from a sense of obligation and that makes embodying joy and light incredibly challenging. If you ARE moved to practice every day then I would use care with that particular style as it is very fiery and can lead to physiological burnout, among other things.
gordon