Japanese yoga
Japanese yoga teachers near you
How can Japanese yoga nourish you?
Japanese yoga is a distinct style of yoga that is entrenched in the flow of nature[1]. Classes change with the seasons to match both the internal and external needs of body and environment. Alternate names for this style of yoga are Ryoho Yoga[2], Ki yoga, Shinshin-Toitsu-Do, Oki-do[3] or seasonal yoga[4]
Japanese yoga is an active and dynamic practice that incorporates traditional yoga postures, or ‘asanas,’ with elements of martial arts, zen shiatsu, Traditional Eastern Medicine and modern exercise science. Also included in this practice are breathwork techniques, meditation and dietary adjustment.
Deeply-rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Japanese yoga works on the energy lines in the body, known as ‘meridians,’ which is similar to an acupuncture or shiatsu treatment[5]. This is to support the flow of energy through the body. Emphasis is placed on developing ‘ki’ (also known as ‘Qi’), which is life energy.
When ki is stuck, as a result of injury, stress or poor lifestyle habits[6], it may cause energy blockages, resulting in disease or illness. By working on the meridians and focusing specifically on the needs of the individuals in the class, Japanese yoga cultivates ki to achieve balance, health and vitality.
Shinshin-Toitsu-Do[7], “The Way of Mind and Body Unification,” is a specific form of Japanese yoga and meditation founded in the early 1900s by Nakamura Tempu Sensei, and is widely practiced in Japan. The International Japanese Yoga Association[8] is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the study of this particular style of Japanese yoga.
Japanese yoga is taught worldwide by many teachers instructed and influenced by Masahiro Oki who founded the Oki-do style of yoga[9]. This traditional style is upheld by the Okido Dojo in the Netherlands[10].
Yoga Australia[11] is also a peak body for yoga in Australia, providing membership, resources and support for yoga teachers across the country, including those trained in styles of Japanese yoga.
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Practitioners offering Japanese yoga
Benefits of Japanese yoga
While there is a need for more research studies focused specifically on Japanese yoga, there is evidence to support the overarching health benefits[12] of yoga in its entirety. Considering Japanese yoga integrates physical yoga postures, breathwork and meditation, this style of yoga may be a way of achieving an overall state of mental, physical, social and spiritual health and well-being.
Literature also provides evidence that yoga may promote positive outcomes for mental health. In a systematic review it was reported that mind-body exercises, such as yoga, were linked to significant reductions in perceived stress[13]. Moreover, studies have shown that yoga may alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety[14].
There is an increasing body of research to suggest that yoga may provide many benefits for the physical body, such as reduced pain[15], increased flexibility and balance[16] and improvements in overall body composition[17].
Japanese yoga may assist in relieving symptoms related to:
What to expect from a Japanese yoga session
Your Japanese yoga instructor will vary the session depending on the season and the time of day. This is said to harmonise both your physical and emotional health[18].
Although classes will vary, you may expect a sequence of movements that incorporate traditional yoga postures, elements of modern exercise and martial arts techniques intended to activate certain meridians and stimulate the energy flow through the body. You may also expect diaphragmatic breathing exercises, dietary and lifestyle suggestions to be included into the session.
The majority of the work will be done on the mat in a supine position, with the spine a major focus of the class. More familiar poses such as sun salutations, downward dog or tree poses are less common in this practice.
Japanese yoga is a creative practice that is suitable for all ages and abilities. As with any exercise or wellness program, please consult your medical professional before commencing Japanese yoga. If you suffer from any underlying health conditions it is important to discuss this with your Japanese yoga instructor who will be able to tailor the session according to your needs.
References
1. Japanese. Find Yoga; [cited on 2024 Dec 5].
2. Treating the Cause (not just the symptoms). Ryoho Wellness; [cited on 2024 Dec 5].
3. Japanese/Ki Yoga. Pinnacle Spine Sports; [cited on 2024 Dec 5].
4. Seasonal Yoga Treats. Seasonal Notes; [cited on 2024 Dec 5].
5. Find Your Space. The Yoga Space; [cited on 2024 Dec 5].
6. Is Your Chi Blocked? Yogapedia; 2024.
7. Japanese Yoga & Meditation. Sennin Foundation Center for Japanese Cultural Arts; 2024.
8. About. International Japanese Yoga Association; 2024.
9. What is OKI-DO YOGA? Family Yoga; [cited on 2024 Dec 5].
10. Home. Okido Yoga; [cited on 2024 Dec 5].
11. What we do. Yoga Australia; 2023.
12. Taneja D. Yoga and health. Indian Journal of Community Medicine; 2014.
13. Zou L, Sasaki JE, Wei GX, Huang T, Yeung AS, Neto OB, et al. Effects of Mind–Body Exercises (Tai Chi/Yoga) on Heart Rate Variability Parameters and Perceived Stress: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Journal of Clinical Medicine; 2018.
14. Skowronek IB, Mounsey A, Handler L. Clinical Inquiry: can yoga reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression? J Fam Pract; 2014.
15. Schmid AA, Fruhauf CA, Sharp JL, Van Puymbroeck M, Bair MJ, Portz JD. Yoga for People With Chronic Pain in a Community-Based Setting: A Feasibility and Pilot RCT. J Evid Based Integr Med; 2019.
16. Polsgrove MJ, Eggleston BM, Lockyer RJ. Impact of 10-weeks of yoga practice on flexibility and balance of college athletes. Int J Yoga; 2016.
17. Manna I. Effects of Yoga Training on Body Composition and Oxidant-Antioxidant Status among Healthy Male. Int J Yoga; 2018.
18. Jones G. The yoga lowdown. Body + Soul; 2010.
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