What Is Vinyasa Krama?
Vinyasa Krama is a systematic and comprehensive method of studying and practicing yoga, developed by Sri T. Krishnamacharya, and now Srivatsa Ramaswami is the torch bearer of this method spreading light everywhere he teaches.
Unlike generic Vinyasa styles, Vinyasa Krama is not about continuous flow or choreography. It is an intelligent, step-by-step approach where movement, breath, and attention are integrated within a clear framework. It has totally 12 sequences with many sub-sequences and each sub-sequence has number of Asanas and each asana has a set of Vinyasa (a particular entry and exit sequence) and every Vinyasa is precisely done either on a Inhale or an Exhale. Its comprehensive in its entirety but also precise in the practice.
It emphasises Asana practice through both dynamic movement and static holds, explores Pranayama interwoven with Bandhas, and chants mantras rooted in the Vedic tradition.”
The Role of Breath and Awareness
A precise instruction on where to inhale and where to exhale, following the anatomical structure of the human body in each Āsana, is woven through
Brahmanā Kriya - Expansive breath assigned to all movements that opens or expands or draws outward the thoracic cage
Langhana Kriya - Contractive breath assigned to all movements that contract, fold, or draws inward the thoracic cage.
Antar (Inside hold) and Bahya (Outside hold) Kumbhaka based on the stage of individuals asana Practice to dive deeper to understand the subtle functioning of the breath in a particular posture.
- The body becomes steadier and stronger
- The breath becomes refined and conscious
- The mind becomes focused and present
Inverted Posture Sequence (Head stand sub Sequence)
Headstand Pose
(Sirsasana)
One-Legged Contraction Posture
(Ekapada Akuncanasana)
Contraction Posture
(Akuncanasana)
One-Legged Headstand
(Ekapada Sirsasana)
Upward Bound Triangle Pose
(Urdhva Baddha Konasana)
Raised Stick Pose
(Urdhva Dandasana)
Unsupported Headstand
(Niralamba Sirsasana)
Crane Pose
(Bakasana)
A Practice that adapts to the Practitioner
One of the defining features of Vinyasa Krama is its adaptability.
- Sub-sequences that serve the whole
- The vast repertoire of postures
- Focus on quality, ratio & depth of the breath
- Challenging yet holistically grounded
- Beginners and long-term practitioners
- Younger and older students
- Those with injuries or limitations
An Overview of the Practice
- Asana (Postures) - Using the body to develop awareness
- Pranayama (Life energy) - Using the breath to develop subtle awareness
- Pratyahara & Dharana (Senses and mind)- Controlling the senses, Stilling the mind in search of the Self.
-
Yogic Scripture and Chanting - Exploring onseself through study
The Lineage Behind the Practice
In his book, The Complete Book of Vinyasa Yoga, Srivatsa Ramaswami presents a clear and comprehensive approach to yoga practice — one that emphasizes intelligent sequencing, breath awareness, and mindful progression.
- Breath-led movement
- Structured yet adaptable practice
- Awareness over aesthetics
- Consistency over intensity
