Each asana is connected by breath - synchronized movements called vinyasa. A full vinyasa is preformed between each asana and a half vinyasa between left and right sides. This acts as a counter pose to the previous asana, increasing blood circulation and relieving any stiffness before entering the next asana. By performing vinyasa the student develops and maintains heat in the body causing profuse sweating. This is necessary for the elimination of toxins.

In each asana the student engages a specific drusthi or gaze point. By focusing on the correct point it enables the student to extend deeper in to the asana and further centres ones concentration.

With practice the breathing, bandhas and drusthis becomes one with the flowing rythmic movements resulting in a slow motion gracefully system of entering, maintaining and exiting the asanas, It is then the student begins to gain insight into meditation in movement.

Within the Ashtanga metod there are over two hundred classical asanas. These are grouped together in a specific order known as a series. There are three groups of sequences in the Ashtanga system.

The first or primary series known as yoga chikitsa (yoga therapy) is designed to theraputically align the body.

The second or inter-mediat series or Nadi Shodana (nerve purification) works on the nervous system and it is more intense than the primary series. The third or advanced series called Stira Baga is even more intense cultivating tremendous strenght, flexibility, control and stamina.

Each series consists of warm-ups (sun salutations), standing poses, forward bends, back bends, twisting, balancing, inverted asanas, stregthening and cooling down asanas followed by relaxation.

Each asana has its own therapeutic value as well, but only when it is performed in the context of the complete series are its effects properly manifested. With the practice of the asanas in the correct order, the use of bandhas, drusthis and correct breathing utilizing the vinyasa system, the student is able to progress very rapidly.

The almost infinate depth of Ahstanga Yoga becomes apparent with regular practice. The development and maintenance of physical well-being, emotional equanimity and spiritual unfoldment are the benifits to be gained through this age-old discipline.

This system of Yoga may be as old as 5000 years and it is still taught in South India by K.Pattabhi Jois, now over 80-years old.

Read more about the yoga.
Ashtanga Yoga IN THE TRADITION OF SRI K. PATTABHI JOIS