Drishti (yoga)

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Drishti is a specific point of focus used in yoga practice, particularly in Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. The term "drishti" is derived from the Sanskrit word "दृष्टि" (dṛṣṭi), which means "sight" or "gaze." Drishti is employed to enhance concentration and to direct the flow of energy within the body during yoga practice.

Types of Drishti

There are nine primary types of drishti used in Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga:

1. Nasagra Drishti - The tip of the nose.
2. Bhrumadhya Drishti - The third eye or the space between the eyebrows.
3. Nabi Chakra Drishti - The navel.
4. Hastagra Drishti - The hand.
5. Padhayoragra Drishti - The toes.
6. Parshva Drishti - The far right or left.
7. Angushtha Ma Dyai Drishti - The thumbs.
8. Urdhva Drishti - The sky or upwards.
9. Naitrayohmadya Drishti - The middle of the eyes.

Purpose and Benefits

The use of drishti in yoga practice serves several purposes:

• **Concentration**: By focusing on a single point, practitioners can enhance their concentration and mindfulness during practice.
• **Alignment**: Drishti helps in maintaining proper alignment of the body in various asanas (postures).
• **Energy Flow**: It aids in directing the flow of prana (life force) within the body.
• **Meditation**: Drishti can be used as a tool for meditation, helping to calm the mind and reduce distractions.

Application in Yoga Practice

In Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, each asana is associated with a specific drishti. For example, in Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog), the drishti is the navel, while in Utkatasana (Chair Pose), the drishti is the thumbs. Practitioners are encouraged to maintain the drishti throughout the practice to cultivate a deeper level of focus and awareness.

Related Concepts

• Pranayama - The practice of breath control in yoga.
• Bandha - The body locks used in yoga to control the flow of energy.
• Mudra - Symbolic hand gestures used in yoga and meditation.
• Asana - The physical postures practiced in yoga.
• Meditation - A practice where an individual uses a technique to focus their mind on a particular object, thought, or activity.

See Also

• Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
• Pranayama
• Bandha
• Mudra
• Asana
• Meditation