ashtanga

Ashtanga Yoga, or the “Eight Limbs” of Yoga (Astau= Eight/ Anga= Limb), or “Patanjalis Yoga,” is a system of Vinyasa- synchronizing breath and movement- and was established in the West by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in the 70’s. The Ashtanga practice was founded in Mysore India, where Sri. K. Pattabhi Jois lived and had practiced for decades with then teacher, T. Krisnamacharya. Mysore continues to be a place of great meaning and significance where many students travel to learn and deepen their practice.

The practice itself consists of 6 individual series, and the series are taught in the Parampara system, where the teacher evaluates the students ability and devotion to the practice, slowly progressing the student along the path. Students learn and deepen their practice in traditional Mysore style classes- self- led and self- paced practice with personalized adjustments and modifications. Additionally, students with an established practice join others in Led practice where they are guided by the teacher in the traditional Sanskrit count, emphasizing a collective harmony of energy and flow.

As a physical practice, Ashtanga Yoga is dynamic & vigorous, and designed to strengthened and purify the body. Through daily practice the body is fortified and made resilient, and as endurance builds the breath deepens and steadies- creating the foundation for a deeper practice. Prana- the wind that animates the body- flows freely as Breath (pranayama), Body (asana), and Mind (dristi) work together. And with regular practice the nervous system begins to regulate, and stiffness in the body begins to soften.

One is awakened to all that is possible, regardless of age, body type or level of experience. It is a practice of humility; greeting each asana with the mind of a beginner. It is the mind entering a meditative state as the analytical mind is allowed to quiet. It is by maintaining discipline and regularity of the practice that the transformative work of Ashtanga Yoga unfolds.