This method is Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.  It was developed by Sri K Pattabhi Jois (1915 – 2009) at his Ashtanga Research Institute, Mysore, India.

The traditional way to begin the study of Ashtanga yoga is to travel to Mysore, South India, and begin studies with the Guru of the method; Sri K Pattabhi Jois left the body 18th May 2009. The current heads of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga are Guruji’s daughter Saraswati and grandson Sharath. However this is not always possible or practical for many people to travel to India

This practice is a sequential system of postures linked by movement and breath. This system comprises three series of postures (asana) called Primary, Intermediate and Advanced A, B, C & D. The Primary Series is called Yoga Chikitsa, meaning body therapy. The Intermediate Series is called Nadi Shodhana, meaning nervous system purification. The Advanced Series (A, B, C & D) are collectively known as Sthira Bhaga or steady strength.

This practice is dynamic. The Primary series consist of Surya Namaskara A & B; standing postures; sitting postures and finishing postures followed by a series of postures for further stilling the mind. There is a relaxation after each practice.

The uniqueness of this yoga is its foundation in the vinyasa (breath movement system). Each movement is synchronized and guided by the rhythmical inhale and exhale. The vinyasa system allows yoga poses (asana) to flow one after another in a steady sequence. 

The breathing technique is called ujjayi breath. Additional aspects of this practice are the application of internal locks (bandha) and glaze points (dhrishi) while we flow from one posture to the next. Each pose is held for 5 breaths before transitioning through a specific series of movements (vinyasa) to the next pose.  

Once the practitioner has understood the breath and movements and no longer as to think about what's next then, this flowing sequence begins to culminate into a moving meditation. This practice has many benefits and can be practiced by anyone if taught in the traditional way (Mysore style or Counted Vinyasa) under the guidance of an experienced teacher.

 Although it is important to learn the postures in the correct order with the Ashtanga Yoga method, it is the cultivation of the breath that is paramount. By focusing on the breath rather than just the achievement of the postures, the practice brings you into deeper contact with your Self.

In Ashtanga Yoga the body moves, continuously swirls, while the mind and the breathing remain irremovable, in a deep and constant rhythm. This dual situation of movement and immobility is what creates the sense of "flow". The situation where the mind becomes the “observer”, and thus extends its limits and potential.

Relaxation is incorporated to release tensions from Body Mind and Spirit.

Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is a fantastic & amazing practice.

About Ashtanga Yoga