Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is a  moving meditation where the poses are linked together by ‘Vinyasa’ which refers to the alignment of movement and breath, a method which turns static yoga postures into a dynamic flow. Poses are then held for a predefined number of breaths. Attention is placed on the breath and the journey between the postures as well as on achieving correct body alignment in a pose.

The breathing style used in Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is ‘Ujjayi’ which is characterized by an ocean sound which resonates in the throat. Throughout a practice, this specific breathing style is maintained in alignment with movements. The steady cycle of inhales and exhales provides one with a calming, mental focal point. Additionally, ‘Vinyasa’ and U’jjayi’ together create internal heat, which leads to purification of the body through increased circulation and sweating.

Other major principle of Ashtanga Yoga include ‘Bandhas’- muscle locking/contraction, which focus energy in the body and  ‘drishti’-focused gaze, which is a means for developing concentrated intention and for helping the body achieve alignment.

Ashtanga was popularized by K. Pattabhi Jois, who began his yoga studies in 1927 at the age of 12, and by 1948 had established an institute for teaching the specific yoga practice known as Ashtanga (Sanskrit for “eight-limbed”) Yoga. There are six main series, referred to as the Primary series (Yoga Chikitsa), Intermediate series (Nadi Shodhana) or Advanced A, B, C, or D (Sthira Bhaga) series level. Newcomers to Ashtanga Yoga practice the primary series, after learning the standing sequence. The Primary Series is the most important series as it forms the basis of the entire system.