Gary Kraftsow shares his background and experiences studying with Krishnamacharya and Desikachar. He discusses the teachings he received and the impact they had on his life. He also talks about the relationship between Krishnamacharya and Desikachar and their teaching methods. Kraftsow explains the concepts of Viniyoga and Vinyasa and how they are applied in yoga practice.

www.viniyoga.com | @americanviniyogainstitute

Key Points

• Gary Kraftsow studied with Krishnamacharya and Desikachar and shares his experiences and the impact they had on his life.
• Krishnamacharya and Desikachar were both revered teachers who adapted and made yoga practices relevant for practitioners.
• Viniyoga is the adaptation of yoga practices to suit the needs of the practitioner and apply them appropriately.
• Vinyasa refers to the sequence and order in which postures are placed in a yoga practice.
• The teachings of Krishnamacharya and Desikachar emphasized the transformation of the body and the practitioner’s highest potential. Adapt postures to suit individual needs and functional benefits.
• The breath is essential in linking the mind and body during yoga practice.
• Yoga is an integrated practice that includes yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, and meditation.
• Release valves are compensating mechanisms that occur when the body cannot stabilize a certain part.
• Find a sustainable yoga practice that supports overall well-being and prepares for the end of life.