What is Correct Yoga Alignment?

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In the world of yoga, the concept of “correct alignment” can be quite elusive. Many questions arise: who determines what is “correct,” and does it have to look aesthetically pleasing? Is it about comfort or the knowledge of one’s body? And what about those who struggle with flexibility and can’t achieve the standard pose?

Approaches to yoga alignment vary depending on the tradition, teacher, practitioner, and context. It’s also crucial to note that different alignments can yield different results, and certain poses may not be suitable for individuals with limited physical abilities or injuries. Even what may seem harmless at the moment can result in chronic harm in the long run.

Here at YogaJaya, our approach to alignment has evolved to prioritize safety and encourage the development of physical abilities, skills, and body awareness. Our digital library offers 86 videos, featuring over 100 poses and variations, that demonstrate our approach from multiple camera angles, highlighting important details.

While we don’t claim to have the ultimate correct alignment, we believe that everyone can benefit and learn from our approach.

Patrick Oancia

Patrick is the founder of BASEWORKS Practice and YogaJaya studio. For over 30 years, he has immersed himself in athletics, the study of hatha yoga asana, and martial arts while refining more-subtle contemplative practices. His passion is to promote a sense of coexistence with the environment, raising self-awareness and autonomy and encouraging greater reliance on intuition. Read Patrick’s full bio here.

STUDENTS' VOICES

Physically, my body was changing. I felt physically and mentally stable, and I felt my feet firmly on the ground. I was able to concentrate and pay attention to the details of my body and my mind.

YOGAJAYA EDUCATION PLATFORM

  • Easily learn with hundreds of informative lecture videos created by experienced teachers, which go far beyond the typical “yoga” related content
  • Practice method that builds body awareness and safely develops strength, flexibility and control over movements.

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  • Focus on skill-building and understanding rather than memorization
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OUR METHOD

  • “A movement practice that makes sense”
  • “A movement practice that connects the dots”
  • An approach for those who wants to “understand WHY”