Ashtanga Yoga North East

Ashtanga yoga (also known as Ashtanga vinyasa yoga) literally means the ‘eight limbs of yoga’ which were described by Pantanjali, these are:

Yama – Ethical disciplines
Niyama – Self observation
Asana - Posture
Pranayama – Breath control
Pratyahara – Sense withdrawl
Dharana - Concentration
Dhyana – Meditation
Samadhi – A state of joy and peace

Asanas are practiced first with focus on Pranayama (breathing), these then develop the principles of Yama and Niyama. The other ‘limbs’ are said to develop naturally with regular practice over time.

The system of Yoga is taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois at the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India and was passed onto him by Sri T. Krishnamacharya when he studied with him in the 1930’s. The same method was also taught to B.N.S Iyengar at a later period and passed on to various students.

This method of Yoga involves synchronizing the breath with progressive series of postures which a process producing intense internal heat and a profuse, purifying sweat that detoxifies muscles and organs. Ashtanga is taught in various series starting with the primary then moving onto the intermediate and advanced series and take many years of practice if not a life time. The result is an invigorating practice which gives improved circulation, a light and strong body, and a calm mind which are just a few of the benefits.

The main elements of Ashtanga Yoga are:

Vinyasa
Which is a breath synchronized movement which links one asana to the next enabling the practice to become a continuous flow from start to finish.

Asana
Yoga postures which gradually increase flexibility, improve posture, circulation, muscle tone and many other benefits.

Drishti
When holding each asana there is a specific gaze point to look towards which helps with concentration and internalization throughout the practice. Over time the practice becomes a moving meditation.

Breathing
A technique called Ujjayi breathing used also with Bandhas (abdominal locks) within the practice gradually opens the body over time giving stability and calmness of mind. Breathing is the most important part of Ashtanga Yoga.