Viniyoga

Viniyoga is less a style of yoga, but rather a methodology that comes from the mystical tradition of the Nath order of Yogis dating back thousands of years. The term Viniyoga comes from the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and means “using, or applying”. The essence of Viniyoga lies in the adaptation of the practice to the individual and not the application of the individual to the practice.

This key insight asserts that the tools of Yoga including postures (Asana), breathing exercises (Pranayama); meditation (Dhyana); chanting, sound, personal ritual, and study are there only for the individual to apply and adapt to help one transform or change in a particular direction. This requires an individual to identify an intention for practice and discern how to intelligently apply the principles and practices of Yoga based on their needs, goals, aspirations, and interests. The vehicle by which one measures their internal condition in order to identify an intention for practice is the breath. The breath is the barometer by which one begins to understand the body mind and is the barometer by which one measures change. When applying and adapting Yoga, one must take into account one?s age, gender, time, place, constitution and abilities.

This tradition of Yoga was developed by the late yoga master Sri Krishnamacharya and further developed by his son T.K.V. Desikachar. The Viniyoga tradition thrives and grows today and is taught by leading proponents including – Chase Bossart, Gary Kraftsow and Aimee Forsberg Ottosen.

Chase Bossart

The Yoga Well Institute is an organization dedicated to Yoga, meditation, and holistic health in the tradition of Viniyoga…where people experience sustainable transformation, come out of suffering, and learn how to help others do the same thing.

Gary Kraftsow

Gary Kraftsow, founder of the American Viniyoga Institute, is an influential figure in the realm of Viniyoga, celebrated for his adaptive approach to yoga and his commitment to individualized practice. As an author and teacher, he has empowered countless individuals to harness the healing potential of Viniyoga for their unique needs.

Aimee Forsberg Ottosen

Aimee is a respected yoga teacher specializing in Viniyoga, renowned for her skill in tailoring practices to individual needs and fostering deep mind-body connections in her students. Through her compassionate teaching style, she empowers practitioners to experience the transformative benefits of Viniyoga both on and off the mat. Aimee teaches public classes at Moksha Yoga Center and private classes and Ayurvedic consultations by appointment.