Define Kripalu YogaKripalu Yoga lays a great stress on the technicalities of Yoga – right breathing and proper alignment – plus right configuration of the inner, spiritual dimensions of Yogic practice.
Practitioners are encouraged to respect "the understanding and knowledge of the body" and to act within the limits of individual strength and flexibility. There are 3 stages in Kripalu Yoga.
The first state concentrates on learning the poses, going into and learning the limits of one’s physical abilities. The second stage has to do with retaining Yoga poses for longer periods of time, building up concentration and inner awareness.
The third stage is referred to as "Meditation in Motion." In this, movement from one Yoga asana to another comes about mechanically and automatically; in fact, spontaneously.
Kripalu Yoga is a relatively new school of Yoga. It mirrors a synthesis of traditional approaches and is based on the teachings of Swami Kripalvanandji. Kripalu Yoga includes within one system the physical and cleansing practices of Hatha Yoga. It also incorporates the mental disciplines of Raja Yoga, the prana awakening principles of Kundalini Yoga, together with the devotion of Bhakti Yoga and the emphasis on service of Karma Yoga.
Besides being a spiritual practice, Kripalu Yoga is also a holistic lifestyle. In this style of Yoga all the principles of Yoga are applied in daily life, off the rug. The secret practising Kripalu Yoga lies in understanding prana (vital-force) as the connection between body, mind, and spirit. Practising Kripalu Yoga regularly normally gives rise to the awakening of prana. This automatically permits the deeper aspects of Yoga and meditation to reveal themselves effortlessly and of their own accord. Throughout the practice of Kripalu Yoga, the practitioner is guided to move at one’s own pace, honoring one’s physical needs at every moment. Above all, Kripalu Yoga cultivates the abilities of the body, mind and spirit in a sympathetic and accommodating manner
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