WHAT IS ASHTANGA YOGA?
Since before the time of written records, the science of Yoga has existed.
The practice of yoga is a process of self-discovery and transformation. Yoga transforms us through gradually dissolving the physical, mental and emotional blocks that restrict our life potential.
One distinct branch on the tree of Yoga is known as Hatha Yoga. In Hatha Yoga, body postures (asanas), breathing methods (pranayama), cleansing processes, deep relaxation and concentration create a strong, supple and relaxed body, increased vitality and a calm, focused mind.
In a city of Southern India, one remarkable Yogi has been involved in the practice and teaching of a unique and high energy method of Hatha Yoga for well over 60 years. His name is Sri K. Pattabhi Jois.
Ashtanga Yoga, a classical method of Hatha Yoga, is renowned for its dynamic, flowing Yoga-asana sequences. Here each asana unfolds into another, linked by Vinyasa (the synchronised movement breathing system) in a continuous cycle, involving the application of specific muscular activations- Bandhas, Drishtis or gaze points and the 'calming' yogic Ujjayi breath.
This system of sequencing yoga-asana with the Vinyasa connecting movements in a specific sequence was once advised and outlined by an ancient Indian sage - Vamana Rishi.
Ashtanga yoga is the original Vinyasa flow system from which the likes of power yoga, dynamic yoga and other vinyasa flow classes have drawn their influences. Through the efforts of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, the Ashtanga series have been preserved for future generations and are accessible to you through Ashtanga Yoga Shala.
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