This section outlines how Dynamic vinyasa flow yoga fits into the history and evolution of yoga practice; the benefits of practice, how the Dynamic yoga training method works and what lies at the heart of dynamic yoga.
As outlined in the origins of yoga and branches of yoga sections, the tradition of yoga is rich, the paths varied and styles of practice numerous.
Dynamic yoga however is not another style of practicing Hatha yoga, it is a training method, a complete system of learning that enables us to experience the spiritual depths of classical Hatha yoga. Historically the evolution of yoga has been a unique and fine blend of tradition and innovation. Dynamic yoga is one such blend, innovative and continuously evolving, with its roots firmly in bedded in the wisdom of the Yoga Sutras
of Patanjali.
One of the most common questions students ask when they first encounter dynamic yoga is why is it called dynamic? Dynamic refers to the experience and the effects of the method. Movement is used to sensitise, awaken and open the body. Then, in response to this, feeling every breath, movement, action and sensation, our yoga experience becomes a vital and a dynamic one.
Our bones are strengthened, joints mobilised, muscles toned and calibrated. The circulation of our bodily fluids is boosted, our respiratory capacity increases and we become more oxygen efficient. The organs of assimilation and elimination are supported and enhanced. The spine instead of succumbing to the ageing process lengthens and directly enhances the flow of energy throughout our nervous systems.
Mentally we become focused and clear and we find ourselves opening to knew possibilities as yoga subtly works on our patterns of reactions, defences, limitations and repressions.
The qualities of openness, honesty and generosity we bring to our practice spill from our mats and enrich our daily life.
We begin to experience a greater equanimity in the face of life’s inevitable ups and downs.
The seven principles of Hatha yoga practice and the five principles of the yoga method form the basis of the D.Y.T.M these simple yet profoundly effective principles and their underlying contexts are introduced systematically in focused stages (vinyasakrama) in an unhurried way. They provide students with a practical, safe and effective means in which to learn the classical yoga techniques of pranayama (free breathing), vinyasa (moving with the breath), asana (postures), bandha (energetic integration) and drushti (attentiveness). The principles once embodied enable students to practice any style of yoga they wish.
Through continuous refinement, clarification and open inquiry the ancient art of Yoga as a spiritual practice and authentic tool of transformation is revealed.
Dynamic yoga does not involve any ritualistic practices nor does it require us to blindly follow authoritive teachings, instead we are invited to develop a deeper intimacy with the innate wisdom of our own bodies and extend our capacity to respond to what we feel.
To watch a dedicated and passionate dynamic yoga student practice yoga is a delight, the practice is graceful, fluid and joyful. It is an internalised and intuitive practice, guided by the wisdom of the body and not by the desires of the mind. The heart of dynamic yoga is manifest as the student moves simply from one posture to another with sensitivity, honesty, acceptance, integrity, courage, knowledge, surrender and love.
Godfrey Deveraux is the founder of dynamic yoga, director of Windfire Yoga Retreat Centre and director of dynamic yoga teacher training courses around the world.
For more info on the dynamic yoga training method: www.dynamicyoga.com
To read Godfreys interpretation of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali: www.yogadarshana.com
Jo kemp has studied extensively with Godfrey over the last 8 years completing residential courses, teacher training, teacher refresher, and assisting on T.T.C in Ibiza and Madrid.
All classes, courses and workshops with Jo are informed by the D.Y.T.M
© 2010 Jo Kemp. All rights reserved.
