Ashtanga Yoga course
What is Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga Yoga is a traditional form of Yoga. Described as “meditation in mouvement”, its practice is based on sequences of poses that are linked by Vinyasa – the coordination of breath and mouvement.
The origin
Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (1915-2009) founded Ashtanga Yoga. A student of Krishnamacharya for 25 years, he opened the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India, in 1948. Pattabhi Jois passed away in 2009, but Ashtanga Yoga continues through his grandson, Sharath Jois.
The method
In Ashtanga Yoga, a sequence of poses (asanas) flows through transition (Vinyasa) that coordinate mouvement and breathing.
Tristana
Vinyasa follows three fundamental principles called Tristana:
- Breath (Ujjayi Pranayama – the victorious breath), the basis of Vinyasa, key to Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.
- Internal locks (bandhas) for correct posture alignment.
- Gaze direction (drishti) in all postures.
Tristana distinguishes Ashtanga Yoga from other forms of Yoga. By applying, these principles to each pose, the yogi find rhythm, physical and emotional awareness, as well as the mental control to focus on the present moment.
The series
In Ashtanga Yoga, there are six series of postures.
The primary series (Yoga Chikitsa) focuses on detoxification, alignment, flexibility, muscle strengthening, and mental observation.
The intermediate series (Nadi Shodhana) extends these goals and also works on the nervous system and deep emotions.
The advanced series (Sthira Bhaga), divided into four parts, further prepares the body and mind for Pranayama.
About Ashtanga Classes
Ashtanga Yoga Styles
01.
Mysore practice is a unique method for building a personalized and regular Ashtanga Yoga routine by learning step by step the sequence of poses.
02.
A led class is an essential complement to a regular Mysore practice in order to reinforce the teaching of the vinyasa system you learn in a Mysore class.
03.
This class is designed for Ashtanga Yoga beginners. It will build a solid foundation for your Ashtanga Yoga practice.
04.
This class consists of strength building followed by simple poses which will enhance your Ashtanga Yoga routine.
Yoga will challenge your mind and body.
Asthanga Yoga Poses
Focus on the fundamental poses.
Utthita Trikonasana
Triangle pose is one of the six fundamental postures in Ashtanga Yoga. It is a standing pose that forms the geometric shape of a triangle. This pose promotes stability, grounding, elevation, and lightness.
Urdhva Mukha Svanasana
As one of the first poses in spinal extension, it significantly opens the heart region. In Upward-facing dog pose, we balance openness, strength and tranquillity.
Adho Mukha Svanasana
Downward-facing dog pose is essential in Yoga practice and is well-known to everyone. This posture on the hands and feet provides an intense stretch of the back of the body.
Additional Yoga Classes
Find the class that fits you.
Vinyasa
A movement-focused class based on simple yoga poses and their transitions. Breath and movement are linked to create a moving meditation.
Restorative Yoga
Restorative yoga promotes deep relaxation by holding poses for extended periods with the support of props. This practice aims at physical, mental and emotional relaxation without strain or pain.
YogiWalkie
The YogiWalkie is a fun, adaptable outdoor yoga walk that combines walking and yoga as a journey towards our inner self. It’s suitable for everyone and a mat is not needed.
Child Yoga
The child yoga class is designed to enhance strength, flexibility and coordination. Classes are fun and may include games, animal sounds and creative pose names.
Frequently asked questions about Ashtanga
If you believe we have overlooked something and still have a question, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
What is the concept of Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic style of yoga where students follow a set sequence of poses. They gradually progress through the series. This practice emphasizes the connection between movement and breath (vinyasa), Ujjayi breathing, and bandhas (energy locks).
How is Ashtanga Yoga different from other yoga?
Each style of yoga has a unique focus and purpose reflected in its teaching methods.
In Ashtanga Yoga, you execute the same poses in the same order along the same breath count, every time you practice.
Is Ashtanga Yoga for beginners?
Although Ashtanga can be challenging, it's important to understand that this practice is not exclusive to advanced yogis. In fact, its traditional teaching and practice methods can be an excellent fit for beginners just starting their yoga journey.
Related information
You may also be interested in these other contents to complete your reading.
Ayurveda & Yoga
Adho Mukha Svanasana
Urdhva Mukha Svanasana
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Stay tuned and join the yogi community !