There are many benefits of a slow flow yoga class. This popular style class was voted a favorite yoga style by 62% of over 2,000 people Instagram.
Here are 11 nervous system and anatomical benefits of a slow flow yoga class:
A Meditative Practice Because of the slower pace, you have time to shift into a meditative seat with long-slow breathing throughout the practice, calming the nervous system.
More time to focus on alignment Taking your time through flows, usually 5+ breaths, allows you to both adjust your posture and feel into the pose in ways a faster flow does not allow. Practice Slow Flow Yoga Classes here.
More time to focus on breath Once stillness is found in a posture, awareness settles onto the breath, slowing it down, and regulating breathing.
Nice long warm-up A nice benefit of a slow flow yoga class is that the warm-up is usually 10-20 minutes long, this means the body and mind are well prepared for the “heat” or vinyasa portion of the class. This allows for a safer and deeper practice both mentally and physically.
Improves joint health and muscle strength Strategic movements and isometric holds target smaller muscle groups, strengthening the muscles and joints. Slower vinyasa flows have less impact on the joints.
Low Impact Yoga Not only are slow flow yoga classes a lower-impact yoga class, but the slower pace allows you to listen to your body more closely and adjust in-real time for signals that may be missed in a faster-paced class.
Pace allows for self-study Slow flows allow you to understand if certain postures bring up certain emotions or resistance. Self-study is known as Svādhyāya in yoga. Read more about yogic self-study here as well as other yogic yamas.
Teaches patience A slow flow yoga class allows space for stillness, which in turn teaches us patience. Which postures do we resist? Which ones do we want to shift out of or rush through? Can we sit in still awareness?
Improves oxygenation of blood With a more meditative practice focused on the breath, we improve oxygenation of our blood which supports our immune system, helps to regenerate cells that wear out, and powers cells to breakdown food and generate more energy for the body.
Builds Perseverance Holding postures for 5 or more breaths requires mental toughness but also reminds us to bring in a sense of kindness and softness into postures.
These are just some of the benefits of a slow flow yoga class. No matter what level yoga practitioner you are, try out either for the classes below to experience the slow flow goodness!
