Adaptive Hatha Yoga
Rebecca’s unique style is calming while also being challenging and strengthening. She does an amazing job of adjusting the class based on what is needed that day. She is a truly exceptional teacher who creates a safe environment to practice in whether it’s a public or a private class, and clearly cares deeply about her work and her students.
Sophy B
Private Student & Retreat Guest
What is Adaptive Hatha Yoga?
“Yoga” is a holistic (mind/body/spirit) discipline with roots in Ancient India.
Originally referenced in a set of Ancient Indian scriptures called The Vedas & deriving from the sanskrit word “yuj,” yoga is at its essence a practice of creating personal harmony so that we can participate in the symphony of life. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras defines yoga as “the stilling of the movements of the mind.”
“Hatha Yoga” is made up of the physical poses & breathing exercises within the yoga practice.
“Hatha” is an umbrella term that embodies the 8 limbs of yoga as laid out by Patanjali. It includes the physical postures (asana), breath or “life force enery” regulation (pranayama), withdrawal from sensory stimulation (pratyahara), focusing your mind on a still point (dharana), self observation (dhyana) and – eventually, fingers crossed – freedom from suffering (samadhi).
“Adaptive” & “Accessible” are relative terms.
When a yoga class is labeled “Adaptive” or “Accessible”, it typically implies that supportive variations will be offered to accommodate different support needs. That being said, you may find that some exercises are not appropriate for you and the day you’re having. Take your time, ask questions and trust yourself to make the right choices for you.
Working With Props
5 Ways To Adapt Downward Facing Dog
Adapt downward facing dog using a chair….
So, what’s the difference between “Hatha” & “Vinyasa” Yoga?
More than likely, every yoga class you’ve ever taken is technically a Hatha Yoga class, however, its also common practice to use “Hatha” and “Vinyasa” as labels for distinct class styles. This can, understandably, be a little confusing. Typically, when you see “Hatha Yoga” on the schedule, you can expect a slower paced class with longer posture holds and less focus on transitions. Whereas, “Vinyasa” or “Vinyasa Flow” classes focus more on flowing between postures and emphasize a rhythmic breath to movement connection.
Both styles of practice have their own value, but the slower pace of a Hatha class allows more time for you to understand what you are doing, access your support needs and intentionally set up your postures. While not always “easy”, Adaptive Hatha Yoga classes are generally safer for beginners, those recovery from injury or managing neuromuscular disorders.
Want to learn more?
Adaptive Hatha Yoga Lessons
Restorative
Chair Yoga
Breath of the Seasons
Breath Literacy
Morning Breath Meditation