What is the Viniyoga Approach to Yoga Practice?
Phoenix Yoga France teaches using the Viniyoga approach to yoga as a practical, adaptable method rooted in breath, attention, and clear goals. We guide teachers and serious students to design practices that meet real needs, then evolve them over time.
Expect student-centred sequencing, personalisation, and a tradition informed by T. Krishnamacharya and TKV Desikachar.
Begin with simple tools.
Progress with intention.
Learn how the Viniyoga approach works.
This page introduces the Viniyoga approach; explore our teacher training, online classes and private sessions for detailed pathways.
What is the Viniyoga Approach
Why We Say “Approach,” Not “Style”
Many people ask if Viniyoga is a style like Iyengar or Ashtanga. It isn’t. It’s an approach: a way of working that can be applied in group classes, therapeutic settings, or teacher training.
It prioritises function over form.
It uses the breath as the central tool.
It adapts sequencing according to clear principles (brṃhaṇa/laṅghana, counterpose logic, SLIBS/DOES).
It embraces yoga as a complete system, not just āsana.
The Viniyoga approach to yoga is a method that adapts practice to the individual. Instead of forcing students into fixed postures or one-size-fits-all routines, Viniyoga begins with the person in front of you; their body, breath, goals, and circumstances.
It is a student-centred, breath-led, and adaptable system, rooted in yoga’s classical teachings but applied to modern needs.
Core Principles of the Viniyoga Approach
Breath-led movement – breath shapes the posture, not the other way around.
Adaptation – every tool of yoga can be adjusted to suit age, ability, or health.
Integration – āsana, prāṇāyāma, meditation, and philosophy are taught as one whole.
Progressive sequencing – each step builds towards a goal, with safety and purpose.
Respect for context – practice changes depending on whether it’s for health, study, or spiritual growth.
Who It’s For
The Viniyoga approach serves:
Teachers who feel that mainstream yoga leaves students behind.
Serious students who want more than fitness or trends.
Individuals managing health conditions, pain, or fatigue who need practice adapted with care.
How We Teach It at Phoenix Yoga France
At Phoenix Yoga France, we share the Viniyoga approach through both our live online yoga classes and a variety of specialist yoga courses:
Introductory Toolkit Weekend – a first step for curious students who want to deepen their yoga practice.
Foundation Course – deeper study of principles and personal practice.
200-hour Teacher Training – accredited training for those ready to teach.
Mentoring & Apprenticeship – one-to-one support for teachers and advanced students.
Therapeutic Work – private sessions for those with specific health concerns.
Each pathway is connected. Students can move between them depending on their goals.
Why Choose Viniyoga?
It offers depth without dogma.
It respects your starting point and builds from there.
It provides tools for real life, not just the mat.
It connects back to yoga’s philosophical roots while remaining practical.
Next Steps
Already teaching? Learn more with us in our Courses for Yoga Teachers → Courses for Yoga Teachers
Want to deepen your yoga practice and curious about the Viniyoga approach? Start with the Toolkit Weekend → Toolkit Weekend.
Prefer 1:1 work? See our Private Yoga Classes → Private Yoga Classes
New to yoga practice? Try our Live Online Yoga Classes → Live Online Yoga Classes
Yoga without the noise. Practical tools and timeless teachings from the Viniyoga approach.
Key takeaways
The Viniyoga approach is adaptable and student-centred
Breath leads movement and attention
Practices are designed for specific aims
Sequencing evolves with the person
Tradition informed by T. Krishnamacharya and TKV Desikachar
FAQs
What is the Viniyoga approach?
A practical, adaptable method of applying the tools of yoga that places the person before the posture. Breath leads movement, attention shapes experience, and practices are designed for specific aims rather than fixed routines.
Is the Viniyoga approach only for beginners or people with health issues?
No. The Viniyoga approach is for anyone who wants a thoughtful, personalised approach, from complete beginners to experienced teachers.
How is the Viniyoga approach different from other yoga styles?
It isn’t a style at all. It’s an adaptable approach that puts the student first. Instead of learning “set sequences,” you learn principles you can apply in any context.
Do I need to be flexible to practise using the Viniyoga approach?
Not at all. We adapt postures and other practice tools to you and your body, not the other way round.
Can the Viniyoga approach help me as a teacher?
Yes. Many teachers find that the Viniyoga approach gives them the tools to move beyond cookie-cutter classes and reconnect with yoga as a complete system.
Does the Viniyoga approach include philosophy and meditation?
Always. It’s a whole system, not just postures. We integrate philosophy, breath, and meditation alongside movement.
How is it different from modern “flow” classes?
Viniyoga sequences are built for purpose. We choose tools that suit the person and the goal, then adjust variables like breath ratio, pace, and intensity to create a planned effect.
Is Viniyoga only gentle?
No. It can be calming or strengthening. Intensity is selected to match the person, context, and aim.
Can I learn Viniyoga online?
Yes. We offer structured courses for teachers, live classes for students, and private sessions for individual needs.
Who teaches this approach at Phoenix Yoga France?
Kate Plummer and Marc Plummer, senior yoga teachers and therapists working in the Viniyoga approach.
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