Astanga Vinyasa Yoga

Astanga, or sometimes spelled Ashtanga Yoga is actually taught today by a man named Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, in Mysore, India. He has brought astanga yoga to the west about 25 years ago and is still teaching today at the age of 91. Astanga Yoga begins with the rediscovery of the ancient Korunta Yoga manuscript. This illustrates the unique Hatha yoga system practiced and created by the ancient sage Vamana Rishi. It is believed to be the original asanas practiced by Patanjali.

Astanga Vinyasa Yoga

Yoga Korunta emphasizes vinyasa, or the movement of synchronization of breath, where a person practices posture with specific breathing patterns associated with it. This breathing technique is called ujayyi pranayama, or breath of victory, and this is a process that produces intense internal heat and lots of sweat which purifies and detoxifies muscles and organs. It also releases beneficial hormones and nutrients, and is usually massaged back into the body. Breath ensures efficient blood circulation. The result is increased circulation, a light and strong body and a calm mind.

There is the right order to follow when practicing Astanga yoga. One must pass from one posture sequence to move to the next. The Main Series (Yoga Chikitsa) detoxifies and straightens the body, purifying it so that the poison does not become clogged. The Intermediate Series (Nadi Shodhana) purifies the nervous system by opening and clearing energy channels, allowing energy to pass easily. The advanced Series A, B, C and D (Sthira Bhaga) combine elegance and stamina training, which demands high flexibility.

It is best to find trained and knowledgeable teachers to help you through this discipline. This is intense intensive training, six days a week. You are guaranteed to find inner peace and satisfaction with every breath you take.

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