| The term Ashtanga historically refers to the 'eight | | | | body. The practice, of breath and asana, is considered |
| limbs' of yoga, a system derived from the writings of | | | | a way to purify our internal organs and muscles. |
| the mystic Patanjali. The yoga known in the West as | | | | The Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga system uses three main |
| Ashtanga, however, refers to something else - and | | | | sequences, each of which performs a different |
| that is the active, flowing style of yoga popularized by | | | | function and builds on the previous in terms of skill, |
| Pattabhi Jois. Jois' yoga is often referred to as | | | | strength, and flexibility required. |
| astanga vinyasa yoga now to differentiate it from this | | | | The primary sequence is known as Yoga Chikitsa, and |
| historical term. | | | | this is the sequence that helps to align the body and |
| All styles of yoga have been influenced by Patanjali's | | | | expel toxins. The next sequence is known as Nadi |
| works. The principles he describes underpin the | | | | Shodhana, and this is the intermediate sequence that is |
| philosophies of the various branches, and in this, | | | | said to open the energy channels and purify the |
| ashtanga vinyasa yoga is no different. These eight | | | | nervous system. The advanced sequence is called |
| limbs are described as: abstinences (Yama), | | | | Sthira Bhaga, and is a higher level series that requires |
| observances (Niyama), postures (Asana), breath | | | | a greater degree of flexibility. |
| control (Pranayama), sense withdrawal (Pratyahara), | | | | It is important for those practicing this form of yoga to |
| concentration (Dharana), meditation (Dhyana), and | | | | ensure that they fully develop each sequence or |
| contemplation (Samadhi). | | | | series before they move on to the next. The series do |
| Breathing correctly is an important part of practicing | | | | increase in levels of difficulty, and for most people, the |
| yoga, and Vinyasa refers to movement that is | | | | first, or primary series is all they may feel inclined to do. |
| synchronized with the breath. Astanga vinyasa yoga | | | | Many of the poses within it are challenging enough, |
| uses a particular style of breathing called ujjayi | | | | particularly if you do not have a lot of upper body |
| pranayama. This is a somewhat noisy type of | | | | strength. And even without progressing beyond this |
| breathing that is done by keeping the mouth closed, | | | | series, the benefits of increased co-ordination, physical |
| and slightly constricting the throat. Its' effect is to | | | | fitness, and concentration, can be developed. |
| reduce the amount of air passing though, which | | | | Ashtanga vinyasa yoga is an extremely enjoyable, |
| thereby increases its' force and speed. | | | | dynamic style that provides both physical and mental |
| A lot of heat is generated in the body when breathing | | | | challenges. It is ideal for those that want a strong |
| ujjayi style. It also helps keep the mind focused on the | | | | practice which incorporates the cardiovascular benefits |
| asanas themselves, and is thus a good way to train | | | | of regular fitness with the flexibility and inner strength |
| the mind. It is said that the asanas, in combination with | | | | that is characteristic of yoga. |
| the heat generated, help eliminate toxins from the | | | | |