Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga yoga (Sanskrit: अष्टाङ्गयोग, romanized: aṣṭāṅgayoga[1], "the eight limbs of yoga") is Patanjali's classification of classical yoga, as set out in his Yoga Sutras. He defined the eight limbs as yamas (abstinences), niyama (observances), asana (posture), pranayama (breathing), pratyahara (withdrawal), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation) and samadhi (absorption). A statue of Patanjali, the author of the Yoga Sutras, practicing dhyana (meditation), one of the eight limbs of yoga that he defines The eight limbs form a sequence from the outer to the inner. The posture, asana, must be steady and comfortable for a long time, in order for the yogi to practice the limbs from pranayama until samadhi. The main aim is kaivalya, discernment of Purusha, the witness-conscious, as separate from prakriti, the cognitive apparatus, and disentanglement of Purusha from its muddled defilements.

In other words, Ashtanga yoga is a popular form of yoga that was developed by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in the 20th century. It is a rigorous and dynamic style of yoga that combines movement, breath, and focus to create a meditative and physically demanding practice. The practice of Ashtanga yoga is divided into six series of increasingly challenging asanas, or postures. Each series is designed to build strength, flexibility, and endurance, and to prepare the body and mind for deeper levels of practice. The practice typically begins with sun salutations, followed by a series of standing postures, seated postures, and finally, inversions and backbends. Each posture is linked together with a specific breath, creating a flowing and continuous movement. In addition to the physical practice, Ashtanga yoga also emphasizes the importance of drishti, or focused gaze, and bandhas, or energy locks. These techniques help to cultivate concentration, inner awareness, and a sense of mindfulness. Ashtanga yoga is a challenging and rewarding practice that can help practitioners develop physical strength and flexibility, as well as mental focus and clarity. It is often recommended for experienced yogis who are looking to deepen their practice and challenge themselves physically and mentally.