ASHTANGA YOGA
What is Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is a style of yoga as exercise created by K. Pattabhi Jois during the 20th century, often promoted as a modern-day form of classical Indian yoga. The style is energetic, synchronising breath with movements. The individual poses (asanas) are linked by flowing movements (vinyasas).
Currently, ashtanga yoga has six series with set sequences: Primary, Intermediate and four Advanced Series. All students begin with Sun Salutations and move through the Primary Series at different rates, only advancing under the teacher’s guidance, which builds a strong, safe, sustainable practice.
Ashtanga vinyasa yoga emphasizes certain main components, namely tristhana (“three places of action or attention”, or the more physical aspects of poses) and vinyasa. Tristhana means the three places of attention or action: breathing system (pranayama), posture (asana), and looking place (drishti).
Ashtanga or the eight limbs of yoga
Ashtanga is Sanskrit for “Eight Limbs.” The eight limbs form a sequence from the outer to the inner.
Asana, our physical practice, acts as an entrance point to the eight branches and easily is accessible by everyone. Through correct guidance and consistent practice, it reveals entrance to the other seven limbs.
YAMA
Ethical standards
Rules to live by in the society
NIYAMA
Self-discipline
Self-practice for personal growth
ASANA
Yoga postures
Daily physical practice
PRANAYAMA
Breathing
Controlling of breath
PRATYAHARA
Drawing within one's awareness
Retracting the sensory experience from external objects.
DHARANA
Concentration
Holding one’s mind onto a particular inner state
DHYANA
Contemplation
Becoming actively engaged with its focus
SAMADHI
Absorption
Being oneness with the subject of meditation
“Always practice with awareness and intention.”
