What is the Viniyoga Approach to Yoga Practice?
The Viniyoga approach is a breath-led, student-centred way of practising and teaching yoga that begins with the person, not the pose.
Rather than fixed routines or performance-based sequencing, it uses clear principles to adapt practice to individual needs, goals, and circumstances.
It is not a style.
It is an approach; a framework for building purposeful, adaptable yoga.
Core Principles of the Viniyoga Approach
Breath organises movement, not the other way around
Practice adapts to the individual
Sequences are built with clear energetic intent
Postures are tools, not end goals
Teaching is responsive, not performative
The focus is not on achieving shapes, but on creating meaningful change through structure and attention.
Who It’s For
The Viniyoga approach serves:
Experienced yoga teachers seeking structural clarity
Serious students looking for depth
Individuals who need adaptable, breath-led practice
Anyone who prefers thoughtful practice over choreography
It supports long-term development rather than short-term intensity.
Why This Matters
For teachers, the Viniyoga approach brings clarity and coherence to sequencing. Planning becomes simpler because it is guided by principles rather than endless variations.
For students, practice becomes adaptable and sustainable. Yoga meets the body as it is, rather than demanding performance.
Instead of adding more techniques, you learn how to organise what you already know.
How We Work With the Viniyoga Approach at Phoenix Yoga France
You can explore this approach in different ways, depending on where you are:
For Yoga Teachers
Start with Revitalise Your Teaching, a focused reset for teachers whose sequencing feels flat or harder to plan than it should be.
For deeper work, we offer Mentoring and Advanced Study in the Viniyoga Approach.
For Yoga Students
Join Live Online Classes rooted in adaptable, breath-led practice.
Or work one-to-one through Private Sessions for tailored support.
FAQs
Is Viniyoga a style of yoga?
No. It is an approach. The same principles can be applied across different contexts and levels of experience.
Do I need to be flexible?
No. Practice adapts to the individual. Flexibility is not the goal.
Is this only for teachers?
No. The approach supports both teachers and students. Teachers use it to organise their teaching. Students experience it through adaptable practice.
How is this different from modern “flow” classes?
In the Viniyoga approach, breath and intention organise the sequence. Movement is purposeful and structured, rather than choreographed for aesthetic effect..
Begin Here
If you are a teacher feeling the strain of planning and adapting, start with Revitalise Your Teaching.
If you are a student looking for intelligent, adaptable yoga, explore Live Online Classes.
Author
Written by Kate Plummer, senior yoga teacher and mentor, trained for over 15 years in the Viniyoga approach. Kate specialises in helping yoga teachers and students find clarity and depth in their practice through personalised guidance.
Last updated: October 2025