The Benefits of Slow Flow Yoga
If you're a yoga enthusiast or just starting out on your yoga journey, you may have come across the term "Slow Flow" yoga. This style of yoga is becoming increasingly popular in studios and online classes. So, what exactly is Slow Flow yoga and what makes it unique?
What is Slow Flow Yoga?
Slow Flow yoga is a dynamic, meditative practice that combines the fluidity of Vinyasa yoga with the gentle pace of Hatha yoga. In a Slow Flow class, the poses are linked together in a continuous, flowing sequence, synchronizing breath with movement. The pace of the class is slower than a typical Vinyasa class, giving practitioners more time to focus on alignment, breath, and mindfulness.
How does Slow Flow yoga compare to other yoga styles?
Slow Flow yoga brings together two other popular styles of yoga: Hatha and Vinyasa
Slow Flow Yoga is often compared to Vinyasa Yoga, another popular style of yoga that also emphasises flow and movement. However, while Vinyasa Yoga tends to move quickly and dynamically, with one pose flowing seamlessly into the next, Slow Flow Yoga is more deliberate and introspective, with a slower pace that allows you to sink deeper into each pose.
Hatha yoga is a more traditional style of yoga that focuses on holding static poses for a longer period of time. Hatha classes typically move at a slower pace than Vinyasa, with an emphasis on alignment, breath, and mindfulness.
Slow Flow yoga, as the name suggests, combines the fluidity of Vinyasa yoga with the gentle pace and mindfulness of Hatha yoga. The continuous, flowing sequence of poses in Slow Flow allows practitioners to build strength, flexibility, and balance, while also promoting relaxation and stress relief.
What to Expect in a Slow Flow Yoga Class?
Slow Flow yoga classes typically start with a grounding meditation, followed by a series of gentle warm-up poses to help loosen and prepare the body for the poses to come. The main part of the class is a continuous, flowing sequence of poses that link together in a meditative flow. Classes usually end with a period of relaxation, often in the form of Savasana or a seated meditation.
Benefits of Slow Flow Yoga
Slow Flow yoga offers many benefits for both the mind and body.
Reduce stress and tension
Slow Flow Yoga has been shown to help reduce stress and tension in the body and mind. The slow movements and deep breathing techniques help to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Improve flexibility and mobility
Slow Flow Yoga is a great way to improve your flexibility and mobility, as the slow and gentle movements allow you to gradually stretch and open up your body.
Increase strength and balance
Physically, Slow Flow yoga helps to build strength and balance, while also improving posture and reducing the risk of injury.
Increase mindfulness and awareness:
Slow Flow Yoga is a meditative practice that helps to cultivate mindfulness and awareness. By focusing on your breath and body sensations, you'll learn to be more present in the moment and develop a deeper connection with yourself.
Boost overall health and wellbeing:
Slow Flow Yoga has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing blood pressure, improving sleep quality, and boosting overall wellbeing.
Conclusion
Slow Flow Yoga is a beautiful practice that can help you connect with your inner peace, reduce stress and tension, and boost your overall health and wellbeing. Whether you're a busy working professional or just need to unwind after a long day, Slow Flow Yoga is the perfect way to slow down, relax, and find inner peace. So why not give it a try and see how it can transform your life?
Try Slow Flow Yoga for Free!
If you're curious about Slow Flow yoga and want to try it for yourself, we're offering a free first class! Whether you're an experienced yogi or a complete beginner, our Slow Flow class is a great way to deepen your practice and connect with your body and breath. Join us at our new Slow Flow class in Hitchin on Mondays at 6.15pm (starting 17th April).
Book here and use the code SLOWFLOWTASTER23 at checkout to get your first Slow Flow class for free!
