What is ashtanga vinyasa yoga? If you’re looking for a new type of yoga to try, Ashtanga Vinyasa might be the perfect option for you! This form of yoga is based on a set sequence of poses that are performed in a specific order. In this article, I will discuss the history and philosophy of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, as well as some of the benefits that you can expect to experience.
Ashtanga vinyasa yoga is a system of yoga that was brought to the modern world by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. The word Ashtanga translates to eight limbs or branches, and asana/ physical yoga posture is just one branch, pranayama or breath control is another.
History Of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
The practice of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga was introduced by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in the 1930s. It is a system of yoga that combines breath control, flowing movements, and static postures. The goal of ashtanga yoga is to purify the body and mind.
Pattabhi Jois began teaching this style of yoga in Mysore, India. He eventually opened the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute, where he taught classes and trained instructors. His students included famous yogis such as B.K.S. Iyengar and Pattabhi’s son, Ramesh Jois.
Today, there are many different schools of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. The most popular method is the Primary Series, which consists of 75 poses and is meant to be practiced six days per week. There is also the Intermediate Series, which has more difficult poses, and the Advanced Series, which includes even more challenging poses.
No matter what level you are at, Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga can help you achieve a sense of peace and well-being. So if you’re looking for a new yoga practice to try, give Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga a chance – you may just fall in love with it!
Philosophy Of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
The system of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga was codified and popularized by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois during the 20th century, who claimed to have learned it from Krishnamacharya. The practice involves synchronizing breath with movement and is a form of flowing yoga, where one movement flows smoothly into the next. It is especially beneficial for building internal heat, improving circulation, toning the muscles, increasing strength and flexibility, and burning fat.
The main goal of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is the purification of the body through detoxification and strengthening of the muscles and joints. The increased heat produced during asana practice helps to flush out toxins from the body’s organs and glands. In addition, the deep breathing associated with this type of Yoga helps to oxygenate the blood and improve circulation.
The practice of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is said to result in improved concentration, a more serene mind, and a stronger, healthier body. In addition, regular practice is said to help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. If you are looking for a challenging and dynamic form of yoga that will leave you feeling invigorated, then Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga may be right for you.
If you have never tried Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga before, it is important to find a qualified teacher who can guide you through the poses safely. Once you have learned the basic principles of the practice, you can then begin to explore it in more depth at home. There are many excellent books and DVDs available that can help you to get started. So why not give this type of yoga a try today? You may just find that it is the perfect form of exercise for you.
Five Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga Poses To Try
When it comes to Ashtanga vinyasa yoga, there are a variety of poses that can be beneficial for your practice. Here are five poses to try:
Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana
This pose is great for lengthening the hamstrings and strengthening the legs.
- To do this pose, start in a standing position with your feet hip-width apart.
- Then, raise your left leg and grab onto your big toe with your first two fingers.
- Next, exhale and bend forward from the hips, keeping your back flat.
- Finally, bring your head down towards your leg and hold for five breaths before releasing and repeating on the other side.
Parsvottanasana
This pose is a great way to stretch the shoulders and chest.
- To do this pose, start in a standing position with your feet hip-width apart.
- Then, step your left foot back about four feet and turn it out 45 degrees.
- Next, square your hips and place your hands on your hips. As you inhale, raise your arms overhead.
- Exhale and bend forward from the hips, bringing your head towards your right knee.
- Hold for five breaths before release and repeating on the other side.
Prasarita Padottanasana
This pose is perfect for lengthening the spine and opening up the shoulders.
- To do this pose, start in a standing position with your feet hip-width apart.
- Then, step your feet about four feet apart and turn your toes out.
- Next, place your hands on your hips and inhale as you raise your arms overhead.
- Hold for five breaths before release and repeating on the other side.
Bhujangasana
This pose is a great way to open up the chest and stretch the front of the body.
- To do this pose, start in Cobra Pose with your palms flat on the floor beneath your shoulders and your legs extended behind you.
- As you inhale, lift your head and chest off the floor, arching back slightly.
- Then, exhale and return to Cobra Pose. Repeat this movement for five breaths.
Salabhasana
This pose is perfect for strengthening the back and lengthening the front of the body. To do this pose, start lying on your stomach with your legs extended behind you and your arms by your sides. As you inhale, lift your head, chest, and legs off the floor. Then, exhale and return to starting position. Repeat this movement for five breaths.
Final Words
The bottom line is that ashtanga vinyasa yoga can be an excellent choice for those looking for a challenging and physically demanding form of yoga. However, it is important to keep in mind that this type of yoga is not for everyone and that modifications may be necessary to avoid injury.
Thanks for reading!
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