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Ashtanga Yoga
Also known as Power Yoga
What is Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga yoga is a system of yoga which is based on eight (ashta) limbs (anga) of the classical yoga discussed by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras.
The eight limbs are namely- code of conduct (yama), the observances (niyama), positions (asana), lengthening of the breath (pranayama), removing senses from material objects (pratyahara), concentration of the mind (Dharana), meditation (Dhyana), non-dualistic state of consciousness (Samadhi).
Ashtanga yoga in west is also known as power yoga which is a modern adaptation of Ashtanga Yoga primary series. The credit of the development of Ashtanga yoga goes to Sri K. Pattabhi Jois and his guru Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya. It is based on the ancient manuscript known as Yoga Korunta. Ashtanga yoga is all about mastering the eight limbs, one-by-one. Only after you have mastered one limb of it, you could move over to the next one.
What are the benefits of practicing Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga yoga offers a whole lot of physical, emotional, mental and intellectual benefits. It helps you get rid of many diseases and makes your body light and strong. It helps the body retain the life and hence increases your lifespan. On the emotional front, Ashtanga yoga helps you become a witness and no slave of your emotions. Thus, it teaches self control and reduces emotional suffering. It also helps one keep a check on his mental state. It helps the mind reflect better on past and present incidents and thus helps you attain a higher mental state and peace of mind.
How to do Ashtanga Yoga?
* Practice Ujjayi breathing throughout your practice session. You need to be aware of your breath and be able to hear it at all times.
* To warm up, start with sun salutation. Ideally, ten rounds of sun salutation are required to begin an Ashtanga Yoga session.
* Move on to the main sequence of poses where you start with primary series of poses in a specific order. As you go learning more of the Ashtanga yoga, you could progress towards the intermediate series.
* In between the poses, practice the Vinyasa sequences that are comparatively easier. It would also help you keep your energy levels high during the entire session.
* Finish the session with final relaxation where you may lie on your back for several minutes and allow yourself to get calmed down.
* Focus on the right points (dristis) on and near your body while you practice ashtanga yoga. Also, maintain the locks in the body (bandhas) while you perform the various poses.
* Practice Ashtanga yoga everyday; if possible. It will benefit you greatly!
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