Five Elements

In this Vinyasa program we bring the qualities of the Pancha Mahabhutas, the five elements of earth, water, fire, air and space, into the practice. In the yoga tradition each element has its own qualities, and we all carry all of them. When they are in balance, we feel in harmony.

Vinyasa is mainly a fire practice. Being aware of the other elements, and bringing them in, gives you a more balanced body and mind.

  • Earth Element: standing and balancing holds for strong legs and a grounded feeling.
  • Water Element: fluid hips, with space around the hip joint.
  • Fire Element: core strength, arm balances and inversions.
  • Air Element: an open chest and shoulders, and a strong back.
  • Space Element: all four elements in one flow, with a little pranayama.

Each class is 45 to 50 minutes, level 1-2, no props needed. Ready for more? Try Five Elements Intermediate.

Five Elements

Week 1

Vinay jesta yoga yin for hips

Earth Element

In this Vinyasa practice we build strength in the lower body by holding standing and balancing postures, with awareness of our connection to the earth through the feet.

It builds strength through the legs and the pelvic floor, and leaves you feeling grounded. When we feel grounded in the body, we stand tall and firm, and we can bring that quality into the parts of life where we need it. Level 1-2, no props needed.

Vinay jesta yoga five elements

Water Element

In this Vinyasa practice we build fluidity in the hips, to flow and adapt through our practice like water.

We create space around the hip joint and build both active and passive flexibility, working mainly on external rotation and letting go of tension in the groin and inner thighs. That helps you move freely and find ease in seated positions, and brings the qualities of water, adaptable, gentle and fluid, into your life. Level 1-2, no props needed.

Vinay jesta yoga five elements

Fire Element

In this Vinyasa practice we connect to our core, build upper body strength and fire up the whole body, floating through core strengthening postures, arm balances and inversions, with a focus on precise alignment.

Once we find our center, we float through the practice with more ease and feel stronger. Get ready to sweat it out and connect to your center, so you feel confident in yourself and can focus your energy on your goals. Level 1-2, no props needed.

vinay jesta yoga five elements

Air Element

In this Vinyasa practice we create space in the shoulders, open the chest and the front body, and build strength in the back body.

We move mindfully through chest openers, backbends and expansive movements to let go of anything heavy we might be holding, and finish with a sense of lightness, like air. Let yourself be more open to change, light-hearted and at ease. Level 1-2, no props needed.

vinay jesta yoga five elements

Space Element

In the yoga tradition, the space element holds room for all the other elements, a symbol of harmony in body and mind. In this practice we combine the qualities of the four elements from the earlier classes into one flow.

Move mindfully, aware of how each element supports the others, so you can bring these five element principles into daily life. We also work with a little pranayama to bring awareness to the energetic body. Level 1-2, no props needed.