About Ashtanga
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is an ancient system of yoga originating from India thousands of years ago. "Ashtanga" literally means eight limbs, as described in the Ashtanga Yoga Sutras of Patanjali as; Yama (moral and ethical codes), Niyama (self-purification and study), Asana (postures), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (sense withdrawal), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation) and Samadhi (contemplation). "Vinyasa" refers to the idea of linking the breath with movement, with a defined number of breaths leading you into and out of a posture. The term "Yoga" has many definitions but is ultimately concerned with the refinement of the mind.
There are three levels of sequences in Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga each comprising a specific order of postures linked together in a flowing series, in which the breath continues steadily throughout. These are the Primary Series, the Intermediate Series and The Advanced Series. The Primary Series consists of 10 sun salutes, 16 standing postures and 28 seated postures followed by 12 postures of the finishing sequence and ending with Savasana. The postures have been organized systematically and should only be practiced in the order in which they are presented, as they cleanse and detoxify the body in a methodical manner on all levels, including the organs, muscles, blood and the nervous system. In addition there are three fundamental techniques that underpin the practice of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga which are the Ujjayi Breath, Uddiyana and Mula Bandha and Dristis.
All students begin with the practice of a few postures from the Primary Series, as determined by the teacher. In addition, under the guidance of a qualified teacher, each Series is to be fully developed before proceeding onto the next. Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, practiced in its correct sequential order, gradually leads the student to rediscovering his or her fullest potential on all levels - physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual.