Classical Ashtanga Yoga

 

 

 

 

 

Classical Ashtanga Yoga is a system of breath and movement (vinyasa), that combines asana (postures) with free breathing, dristi (gaze-point), and bandhas (the development of the subtle or energetic body) to gradually tone the systems of the body including the cardiovascular, immune, digestive, endocrine, and nervous systems. Learning how to breathe and move increases cellular capacity, affecting the health of the entire physiological system. 

.

Through practice we learn to balance and utilize complimentary energetic forces; we learn to strengthen and care for the vessels of body and mind to make space for spirit.

​

Learning begins with Surya Namskar (sun salutations) and the standing postures, which are the foundational asana. We begin with these to connect with grounding, balance, and stability through the feet and legs. With a foundation of stability, we can grow. The closing series, which is always incorporated into daily practice, as are the Surya Namskar, is integral to create balance in the practice: After generating heat in the body, the closing series supports the opportunity for cooling and focusing the internal awareness that has been cultivated during practice. The Primary Series or Yoga Chikitsa (yoga therapy) works with lateral movement, stretching both sides of the spine and the entire back of the body, through forward folds. The Primary Series also mobilizes and strengthens the hips, knees and shoulders, supporting the health of the joints. The Intermediate Series or Nadi Shodanah (nerve cleansing) builds on the first series to introduce deeper movement of the spine through backward bending, stimulating the nervous system. The Intermediate Series also builds on the development of the deep core muscles to support the health of the lower back. The Third Series or Advanced A & B again builds on the first two, combining shapes developed in the earlier series and working with more complex balance, strength and the energy of lifting upward.

​​

The system is designed intelligently in terms of the progression of development and growth. As my teacher says, this is a "lock and key system", each form and movement informs what comes next and what has come before. In this way, the practice invites the student into a cyclical exploration of growth, connecting the student to the natural rhythms of life. The system begins to reveal itself as we move through and learn the practice. Students are not held back until postures are "perfected" as is the method in some current transmissions of the Ashtanga system. Every body is different and there are no perfect postures. We make the shapes, breathe, and move on to prioritize the rhythmic, energetic nature of the practice.

​

Traditional Pranayama are a set of strong energetic practices and are part of the Ashtanga system; however, body and mind must be prepared for these practices and these techniques are only taught when students are ready and have been practicing consistently.