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AshtangaYoga

Ashtanga Yoga

What is Ashtanga Yoga?

Yoga teacher focuses in Prayer PoseAshtanga 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
 

Selena in chatturanga dandhasana


"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