Ashtanga
Yoga
What
is Ashtanga Yoga?
 Ashtanga
Yoga is a powerful sequence of Hatha postures practiced continually in
combination with bandhas (internal muscle contractions) and ujjayi breath.
This combination creates a deep internal heat and a relaxed, meditative
state.
The
main components of Ashtanga Yoga are Vinyasa (synchronized breath and
movement), Heat, Bandhas (Locks), Breath, and Dhristi (gaze points). The
purpose of the vinyasa is for internal cleansing. The locks are internal
energy "gates" which help to regulate the energy flow. By "engaging" specific
locks within the body energy is directed and internal heat created. There
is a breathing technique used to also aid in this creation of heat. The
breath is what empowers the movements in Ashtanga and one can ride that
breath throughout the practice. Drishtis are gazing points used to direct
the attention inward.
Ashtanga Yoga is an ancient system of yoga passed down from Sri T. Krishnamacharya
to Sri K. Pattabhi Jois beginning in 1927 during his studies with Krishnamacharya.
Pattabhi Jois (1915-2009) was the master of the Ashtanga Yoga system and
was responsible for Ashtanga’s transmission to the west.
Ashtanga (1/2 Primary) classes practice half of the Primary Series postures
that compose a regular Ashtanga class. This allows for a comfortable introduction
to the sequence for new students as well the ability to focus on details
for regular practitioners.
Ashtanga
Mysore classes are individually paced classes where students receive
one-on-one assistance from the teacher. This offers a unique opportunity
to advance through the Primary Series of postures at your own level of
ability. Please bring your own mat and towel. A basic familiarity with
the Primary Series is recommended. Click
here to read more.
| "Ashtanga
is my fix. If I had a horrible day, if I’m anxious about something, feeling
tired, sad, etc.- I can do my practice (preferably in a class) and come
out of it in a totally different state of mind. Physically, Ashtanga has
made me stronger, more resilient, and has improved my posture and the awareness
of my body." |
Benefits
of Ashtanga Yoga
- Builds
strength
- Increases flexibility and muscle tone
- Develops mental focus
- Builds endurance
- Provides a strong cardiovascular workout
- Reduces stress
- Builds inner heat for purification and detoxification
- Increases lung capacity for better breathing
- Provides opportunity for advancing practice
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| "I
love all of the Ashtanga Teachers at Yoga Yoga. They have shown me that
the practice of yoga does not end when class is over. ...I love it. Because
it opens my heart. Because, at least for a little while, it is just the
breath and I am calm and quiet inside." -Debbie |
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