Initially viniyoga was the word used for the ritual preface which briefed the further tantric activity, its aim, original proponent {the name of the seer}, the specific literary style {verse etc}, place, time, posture of performance etc.

Such a preface has been routined mostly to recollect the finer methodology of the ritual as well as to mystically register the performance. In Islamic practice, the 'Niyyata' that precedes each of the 5 timely prayers or 'Namaaz' is effectively alike.

This viniyoga gradually lost its existence as Bhakti came into force and worships were less methodically mystically empowered and more emotionally devoted {the worhipped deities more forgiving and oblivious to the errors of worship}.

pathak">Rr pathak 07:26, 12 May 2006 (UTC) : contributed by Dr. Rakesh Ranjan Pathak on 12.05.2006

Viniyoga is a word later used to distinguish the yoga style of T. K. V. Desikachar (in the lineage of T. Krishnamacharya). Desikachar himself later distanced himself from the word. In general, the name is meant to emphasize that yoga practice should be adapted to fit the individuality and particular situation of each practitioner.

Yoga

ViniYoga