Ashtanga Yoga is an ancient system of Yoga that was taught by Vamana Rishi in the Yoga Korunta. This text was imparted to Sri T. Krishnamacharya in the early 1900's by his Guru Rama Mohan Brahmachari, and was later passed down to Pattabhi Jois during the duration of his studies with Krishnamacharya, beginning in 1927. (www.ayri.org)

Ashtanga Yoga literally means "eight-limbed yoga," as outlined by the sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. According to Patanjali, the path of internal purification for revealing the Universal Self consists of the following eight spiritual practices:

• Yama [moral codes]
• Niyama [self-purification and study]
• Asana [posture]
• Pranayama [breath control]
• Pratyahara [sense control]
• Dharana [concentration]
• Dhyana [meditation]
• Samadhi [contemplation] (Scott 14-17)

The first four limbs—yama, niyama, asana, pranayama—are considered external cleansing practices. According to Pattabhi Jois, defects in the external practices are correctable. However, defects in the internal cleansing practices—pratyahara, dharana, dhyana—are not correctable and can be dangerous to the mind unless the correct Ashtanga Yoga method is followed (Stern and Summerbell 35). For this reason, Pattabhi Jois emphasizes that the "Ashtanga Yoga method is Patanjali Yoga" (Flynn). (www.ashtanga.com)

Ashtanga – Eight Limbs

Vianyasa – Moving Breathing Sequence

Yoga Union

“Is a dynamic and enormously transformational system of yoga that emphasizes “breath synchronized movement” a method of synchronizing a progressive series of postures with a specific breathing technique (ujjayi pranayama) – a process inducing deep meditation, producing intense internal heat and a profuse purifying sweat that detoxifies the muscles and organs. The result is improved circulation, a light and strong body and a calm mind.

The primary series is designed to re-align the skeletal system and to cleanse and purify the internal organs of the body through prevention of the accumulation of waste products.

The second series focuses on back bending postures and works on balancing the nervous system and opening the heart chakra” (www.ashtanga.com).

Bandhas – Internal Locks or Valves

Whilst practicing the breathing and the asanas we engage what are known as the bandhas (uddiyana and moola bandha) that are internal energy valves. The purpose of this practice has multiple facets. It prevents the dissipation of energy from the body, redirecting the internal flow of energy through the nadis or subtle energy channels in the body thus activating the energy body.

It builds and maintains the internal heat and provides the lightness and lift to give the practice its flying and gliding quality. It quietens the sympathetic nervous system and activates the parasympathetic nervous system giving a feeling of deep relaxation, emotional balance at the same time charging the central nervous system with energy. Finally on a more esoteric note it is said to awaken kundalini shakti or the dormant psychospiritual energy at the base of the spine.

Copyright © Ashtangaom 2007. All rights reserved.