What is power yoga?

As yoga has grown in popularity in the last decade, there are more yoga classes offered in a variety of venues from yoga studios, to fitness clubs, to gyms, parks and beaches. Increased popularity means that, hopefully, there are many options for people who need and will benefit from practicing yoga.

A somewhat common label for yoga classes, at least in the US is “power yoga”. In general, classes labeled as power yoga offer a flowing style of yoga postures organized in a variety of sequences that move at a faster pace than other classes and that are also physically demanding and intense. It can be argued that these classes are generally targeted towards people who are already in good shape, and who enjoy exercising. Because these classes can put the system under intense stress, practitioners may feel a runner’s high, a release of endorphins that creates a sense of euphoria or exhilaration.

It seems reasonable to think that getting a ‘blissful workout’ is the essence of what yogis are searching for. However, when that pursuit does not involve a mindful practice, some practitioners often end up with injuries in addition to feelings of inadequacy for not being able to do the ‘complete’ versions of the postures that tend to be practiced in power yoga. Unfortunately, over the years I have seen students for whom the power yoga practice has become a way to exacerbate an imbalance that drains their energy and vitality. Since yoga is a continuous process of meeting ourselves where we are, these classes can offer benefits for people who need to develop greater strength, speed up their pace and metabolism. The key is that each person grows in their capacity to discern what is too much and what is enough, so that they can choose intelligent ways to create greater balance where it is needed.

I would like to suggest that a more adequate definition of power yoga is: a yoga practice that empowers students to become more mindful, self-reliant, vibrant and alive. In other words, power yoga consists of practices that help practitioners integrate their physical, mental and emotional aspects to participate more fully and joyfully in their lives. This style of power yoga enhances clarity, reduces suffering and generates more love.

How can we practice power yoga?

By engaging our bodies, minds, hearts and breathing at their full capacity, not going beyond what we can do and not doing less than we can. The practice is even more potent when the contribution of each one of these systems, physical, mental, emotional and respiratory is integrated and balanced. This is easier said than done. Thus the practice presents a challenge that is appropriate and changes over time according to our condition and situation. This is a powerful path that will truly empower us to move mindfully beyond our limitations. Perhaps a helpful way to clarify if we are practicing authentic power yoga is by asking: Does my yoga practice replenish or deplete my energy? How can we answer this simple question? By taking a few moments to feel the effects of the practice, immediately after finishing and also during the rest of the day. By observing you will also grow in your ability to notice sublter and subtler changes and to direct the practice to create greater balance and aliveness.

I hope these ideas help you fine tune your yoga practice.

Namaste.