Ashtanga Yoga

Catherine Doyle reports on ashtanga yoga, explaining how it differs from other styles of yoga. Ashtanga yoga is also known as power yoga.

Ashtanga yoga is the method of yoga taught by Sri Pattabhi Jois and is based on an ancient text that describes a complex system of linked yoga postures. This text was re-discovered by Jois and his guru, Krishnamacharya, in the early 1930's. This article aims to give you a flavour of Ashtanga yoga and how it differs from other styles of yoga.

Breath Sychronised Movement

Ashtanga yoga uses ordered postures, or asanas, linked together by the breath. This breath-synchronised movement is also called vinyasa, and helps to develop strength, stamina, and flexibility.

Postures

The postures used in Ashtanga Yoga are divided into six series: the primary series, the intermediate series, and four advanced series. The postures are presented in a certain order, and unlike some other yoga styles, the order of the postures is very important. The primary series starts off with a Salute to the Sun, and continues through standing, sitting, and inverted postures, ending with relaxation. The postures are carried out ryhthmically in an athletic manner with the emphasis being on flow.

Breathing

Ujjayi breathing is used during practise, where each movement is carried out as the practitioner inhales or exhales through the nose, while contracting the muscles at the base of the throat. Breathing the ujjayi way has the effect of deepening the breathing, and produces intense heat within the body. This massages the internal organs, promotes mental stillness, and generates flexibility in the body.

Gaze

Ashtanga yoga also uses focal points or drishti - the nose, thumb, navel, and third eye. These points are observed during each posture, and also help to still the mind.

Locks

Locks are used during the practise of Ashtanga yoga. These are contractions of specific muscle groups. Maintaining the locks concentrates the mind, as well as massaging the internal organs, and helping to relieve stress. Normally the locks are taught only when a beginner is comfortable with the basic postures.

Power Yoga

Ashtanga yoga is sometimes known as power yoga. The term originates from the title of a book written by an American Ashtanga yoga teacher, Beryl Bender Birch.

Summary

Ashtanga Yoga is an energetic style of yoga which incorporates traditional yoga postures designed to stretch, strenghen and detoxify the body, along with techniques to calm the mind. It is suited to those who would like to work on their mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing while getting a good workout at the same time!