What is Sivananda Yoga?
Sivananda Yoga is a classical and holistic approach to Hatha Yoga that stretches and tones the whole body, while emphasizing frequent relaxation and full yogic breathing. It has not been modified by Western teaching, like so many types of yoga popular today. Sivananda Yoga is a complete healing system designed to help the body maintain a natural healthy state. It is best suited for people looking for a holistic yoga practice that include movement, meditation, breathing and spiritual focus.
A typical Sivananda Hatha Yoga class starts with Sivansana (relaxation), progresses to breathing exercises of Kapalabhati and Anuloma Viloma (alternate nostril breathing), then warms the body with Surya Namaskara (sun salutations). Then moves into 12 basic asanas (yoga exercises) from the Himalayan mountains. And finally, ends with and extended Sivansana. Classes are generally 90 minutes to one hour.