ASHTANGA YOGA

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Yoga is possible for anybody who really wants it.
Yoga is universal.
-Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois

Ashtanga literally means eight limbs in Sanskrit and it refers to the 8 limbs of Yoga from the Yoga Sutras Of Patanjali.One of the many paths of Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga is a yoga system taught and made popular by Sri K.Pattabhi Jois at the Yoga Research Institute in Mysore,India. Pattabhi Jois, a leading practitioner studied with renowned teacher, Krishnamacharya in 1927 and practiced yoga for over 25 years.

Ashtanga Yoga is a complete system of physical, mental and spiritual training which was outlined in an ancient text called Yoga Korunta.Ashtanga differs from other styles of yoga as it incorporates a type of flowing movement called Vinyasa (uninterrupted flow).This style synchronizes breath with progressive series of postures producing intense internal heat and a profuse sweat.The heat helps to relieve tightness in muscles, ligaments, joints, internal organs and other parts of body while the sweat remove impurities out of the body.

Ashtanga Yoga also incorporate a special kind of yogic breathing called Ujjayi (victorious) breath which helps to focus the mind.This is combined with Bandha (bodily locks) and Drishti (gazing technique). Bandha means locking or tightening certain internal muscles to help seal in energy and generate heat whilst single pointed awareness through gazing helps to stabilize the mind.

Generation of heat also plays an important part on spiritual development.For centuries, yogis have believed that an energy known as Kundalini lies dormant at the base of the spine in the form of a serpent.When awakened, it rises up through each chakra to unite with the power of cosmic consciousness that resides at the crown of the head.

A session of Ashtanga Yoga typically begins with an opening prayer, followed by vigorous series of Sun Salutation and asanas which includes standing, seated, backbend, inversion, balancing and twisting poses to improve strength, stamina and flexibility.Ashtanga Yoga is gaining popularity in recent years.Since it is a physically challenging and demanding yoga, it is not recommended for newcomers.

Tags: ashtanga yoga, Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois, Yoga Korunta, Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

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