Yoga

Ashtanga  yoga 

is a lineage of hatha yoga originating in Mysore India. Practiced in its correct sequential order, gradually leads the practitioner to rediscover his or her fullest potential on all levels of human consciousness: physical, psychological and spiritual. Through this practice of correct breathing (Ujjayi pranayama ) postures, (asanas), and gazing point (drishti), we gain control of the senses and a deeper awareness of ourselves.

By maintaining this discipline with regularity and devotion, one acquires steadiness of body and mind.

Ashtanga literally translates to Eight Limbs. These limbs are described by Patanjali as:

Samadhi (liberation)

Each of these branches support each other. Asana practice must be established for proper practice of pranayama , and is a key to the development of the yamas and niyamas. Once these four externally oriented limbs are firmly rooted, the last four internally oriented limbs spontaneously evolve over time. “Vinyasa”  means breath synchronized movements. The breath is the heart of this discipline, and links asana to asana in a precise order. By synchronizing movement with breathing makes this practice a moving breathing meditation. When we incorporate in Mula and Uddiyana bhanda (the internal energy locks) an intense internal heat is produced (Tapas). This heat purifies muscles and organs, expelling unwanted toxins as well as releasing beneficial hormones and minerals which can nourish the body when the sweat is massaged back into the skin. The breath regulates the vinyasa and ensures efficient circulation of the blood. The result is a lighter, stronger body.

There are three groups of sequences in the Ashtanga system:

Primary series: (Yoga Chikitsa) yoga therapy, detoxifies & aligns the body.

The Intermediate series :(Nadi Shodhana) purifies the nervous system by opening and clearing the energy channels (nadis).

The Advance series A,B,C,D: (Sthira Bhaga) integrates the strength and grace of the practice, requiring higher levels of flexibility and humility.

Each level is to be fully developed before proceeding to the next, and the sequential order of asanas is to be meticulously followed. Each posture is a preparation for the next, developing the strength and balance required to move further.