Ashtanga
Vinyasa Yoga is the practice of a traditional sequence
of poses as taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. Pattabhi Jois is renowned
for his teaching method of Vinyasa, breath synchronized movement.
The most visible aspect of the Ashtanga Yoga system is the different
yoga asanas (postures). More important, though, is the invisible
content, which consists of three fundamental techniques; breath, bandhas,
and drishti. These techniques bind the postures together on a string
so that they become a yoga mala or garland. *
There are three
groups of sequences in the Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga system. The
Primary Series (Yoga
Chikitsa) detoxifies and aligns the body, physically emphasizing hip
opening and forward bending. The Intermediate
Series (Nadi Shodhana)
purifies the nervous system by opening and clearing the energy channels,
exploring variations of back bending. The Advanced
Series (Sthira Bhagah) integrate the strength and grace of the
practice, requiring higher levels of flexibility and humility. **
At Down to Earth Yoga the Primary and Intermediate Series are explored.
Each posture is a preparation for the next, developing the strength and
balance required to move further. Proficiency in a series is expected
before moving on to the next series.
* Ashtanga Yoga Practice & Philosophy by Gregor Maehle
** Astanga Yoga by Lino Miele |
