When pondering on what to write next I immediately thought of Ashtanga Yoga. What better topic to write on than what I did my Teacher Training in? I spent four months in Mysore India the home of Ashtanga training to become a certified yoga instructor. I c

The Origins and Founder of Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga yoga, a dynamic and structured form of yoga, was developed by K. Pattabhi Jois in the early 20th century. Jois, born in 1915 in Karnataka, India, began his yoga journey at the age of 12 under the tutelage of T. Krishnamacharya, one of the most influential yoga teachers of modern times. The Ashtanga method, as taught by Jois, is derived from an ancient manuscript called the "Yoga Korunta," which he learned from Krishnamacharya. Jois established the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India, in 1948, where he taught this practice until his passing in 2009.

Differences Between Ashtanga Yoga and Other Forms of Yoga

Ashtanga yoga stands out from other forms of yoga due to its structured and sequential nature. Unlike more fluid forms like Vinyasa or the static postures of Hatha yoga, Ashtanga follows a fixed series of postures. This method emphasizes the synchronization of breath with movement (vinyasa), creating a flowing, almost dance-like practice. The practice is divided into six series: Primary, Intermediate, and four Advanced series. Each series must be mastered before progressing to the next, ensuring a comprehensive and gradual development of strength, flexibility, and endurance.

The Benefits of Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga yoga offers a multitude of benefits, both physical and mental. Physically, it builds strength, flexibility, and stamina. The demanding nature of the practice helps in muscle toning and improves cardiovascular fitness. Regular practice also enhances balance and coordination. Mentally, Ashtanga promotes focus and discipline due to its structured approach. The synchronization of breath and movement helps calm the mind and reduce stress. Over time, practitioners often experience increased mental clarity, reduced anxiety, and an overall sense of well-being.

The Primary Series: Yoga Chikitsa

The Primary Series, known as Yoga Chikitsa or Yoga Therapy, is designed to detoxify and align the body. It consists of a set sequence of postures that begin with Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskara) to warm up the body. This is followed by standing poses that build strength and flexibility, seated poses that focus on forward bends and hip openers, and a finishing sequence that includes backbends and inversions. The Primary Series purifies the body, improves flexibility, and builds a strong foundation for the more advanced series.

The Intermediate Series: Nadi Shodhana

The Intermediate Series, or Nadi Shodhana (Nerve Cleansing), aims to purify the nervous system by opening and clearing the energy channels (nadis) throughout the body. This series builds on the foundation of the Primary Series, introducing more complex poses, including deeper backbends, arm balances, and twists. The Intermediate Series requires greater strength, flexibility, and concentration, as it works to balance the practitioner’s energy and further enhance their physical and mental endurance.

Ashtanga yoga, with its rich history and structured approach, offers a comprehensive system for physical and mental development. Founded by K. Pattabhi Jois and rooted in ancient traditions, it provides a disciplined practice that differentiates it from other yoga forms. The systematic progression through the series ensures balanced development, promoting strength, flexibility, and mental clarity. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi, Ashtanga yoga presents a transformative journey that aligns the body, mind, and spirit. Having experienced the transformative journey of Ashtanga yoga myself, I can attest to its profound impact on aligning the body, mind, and spirit.