Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga is a system of yoga that was codified and popularized by K. Pattabhi Jois during the 20th century, which is often promoted as a modern-day form of classical Indian yoga. Ashtanga's roots are in the ancient text Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which describes the eight-fold path of yoga. The term "Ashtanga" comes from the Sanskrit words "ashta" (eight) and "anga" (limb), referring to the eight limbs outlined by Patanjali.

History

Ashtanga Yoga was established on the basis of the manuscript Yoga Korunta, which K. Pattabhi Jois learned from his teacher, Tirumalai Krishnamacharya. Krishnamacharya had spent many years in the Himalayas studying the ancient text, which emphasized a practical and highly structured approach to yoga practice.

Practice

The main components of Ashtanga Yoga include Vinyasa, a breathing and movement system, and six series of asanas that increase in difficulty. Practitioners usually begin with the Primary Series, also known as Yoga Chikitsa, which aims to detoxify and align the body. This is followed by the Intermediate or Second Series, and four Advanced Series. Each series builds upon the last and prepares the practitioner for the next set of asanas.

Vinyasa

In Ashtanga, each movement is synchronized with the breath (called vinyasa), which is intended to create heat in the body, leading to purification through increased circulation and sweating.

Asanas

The asanas in Ashtanga Yoga are designed to purify the body, improve circulation, and strengthen the nervous system. Each pose is held for a specific number of breaths before moving on to the next through a series of movements called transitions.

Breathing

The breathing technique used in Ashtanga is called Ujjayi Pranayama, which helps to maintain the rhythm of the practice and focuses the mind.

Philosophy

Ashtanga Yoga is based on the eight limbs of yoga as defined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. These include:

• Yama (ethical standards)
• Niyama (self-discipline)
• Asana (posture)
• Pranayama (breath control)
• Pratyahara (sensory transcendence)
• Dharana (concentration)
• Dhyana (meditation)
• Samadhi (state of ecstasy)

Influence and Legacy

Ashtanga Yoga has been influential in the spread of yoga across the world, particularly in the West. It has inspired many modern forms of yoga and has contributed to the global popularity of yoga as a physical and spiritual practice.

See Also

• Hatha Yoga
• Vinyasa Yoga
• Power Yoga
• Yoga Sutras of Patanjali