Ashtanga Yoga is a method of yoga that is taught in India by Sri K Pattabhi Jois. This style of yoga involves the synchronization of breathing with a progressive series of postures. This is a process that produces a kind of intense internal heat as well as a drenching, purifying sweat that is supposed to detoxify the muscles and organs of the body. The result is a light and strong body, improved circulation and a calm mind.

Ashtanga Yoga Background

Ashtanga Yoga is a method of yoga that was recorded by Vamana Rishi in an ancient manuscript call the Yoga Korunta. This article was said to contain lists of a variety of groupings of asanas and highly original teachings on the subjects of vinyasa, bandhas, drishti, mudras and philosophy.

The text of this article was handed down to Sri T. Krishnamacharya by his teacher Rama Mohan Brahmachari in the early 1900’s. It later came into the possession of Pattabhi Jois when he studied with Krishnamacharya beginning in 1927. Jois has been teaching this type of yoga since 1948 from his yoga shala.

The literal meaning of Ashtanga Yoga is “eight-limbed” yoga as put forth by sage Patanjali. According to him, the path of internal cleansing in order to reveal the universal self is based on the following eight spiritual practices:

• Yama which are moral codes
• Niyama which is based on study and self-purification
• Asana or posture
• Pranayama which is controlled breathing
• Pratyahara which is sense control
• Dharana which is concentration
• Dhyana which is meditation and
• Samadhi which is contemplation

You must first decide why you wish to start yoga and then go about choosing the appropriate form for you. The principles of yoga are quite simple – relax, tune out everything and stretch and you will feel better.

If you are looking to get fit these types of yoga are for you:

” Hatha yoga ”

This type of yoga is based on controlled stretching. An emphasis is placed on developing a flexible spine. This type of yoga is excellent for all levels of fitness.

” Vini yoga ”

This type of yoga is gentle and safe and is very good for older people. It is taught by a teacher called a Desikachar and is usually taught on an individual basis.

If you really want to get physical then you should choose these types of yoga:

” Lyenger yoga ”

This type of yoga focuses on correct postures. It often makes use of ropes and blocks to maintain these postures.

” Sivananda yoga ”

This type of yoga is suitable for every age and covers a wide range of poses which range from simple to complex. ” Ashtanga yoga ” This type of yoga is known as power yoga. It is very demanding and is only suitable for those people who are very fit.

For those of you who want to get spiritual, then you would want to choose from these types of yoga:

” Raja yoga ”

This is often referred to as royal yoga. It is concerned with the mind.

” Dru yoga ”

This is group yoga which concentrates very heavily on breath work.

” Jnana yoga ”

This concentrates on the philosophical aspects of youga and is very spiritual and meditative.