Ashtanga Yoga – Is it right for you?
Ashtanga Yoga is the type of yoga which was developed and founded by K. Pattabhi Jois. This type of yoga is known as the Eight Limb Yoga which has revolved in Pattanjali’s enormous idea. It presented that the path of purification is made up of the eight spiritual practices.
The first four limbs that represent Ashtanga Yoga are – yama, niyama, Asana and the Pranayama. These cleansing practices are easily correctable externally. The other set of limbs which are the – pratyahara, dhyana, dharana are the internal practices.
Correct these limbs by properly applying the Ashtanga Yoga method. This type of yoga method is quite dangerous to the mind.
K. Pattabhi Jois said that practicing these Eight Limbs and also its sub-limbs of the external practices which include the niyama and yama is not possible. In doing so, the body should be strong so that it can perform the practices well enough. If the body is weak, and the sense organs are not functioning well, practicing will never be useful at all.
This is a philosophy that K. Pattabhi Jois has applied, this is important to understand so that in doing the practice, you are sure that the body will improve and keep it stronger and healthier.
Vinsaya and Tristhana is practiced in Ashtanga Yoga.
The Vinsaya is a style that makes Ashtanga and its principles distinct from the others. Vinsaya involves movement and breathing techniques that promote the internal cleansing process. Each movement done is accompanied by only one breath. Sweat is the most important product of Vinsaya. When you produce sweat, it only means that you are successfully applying the practice.
When you perform the Asanas, the body creates heat which causes your blood to boil and excrete the toxins outside of your body. Sweating helps your body release toxins, so the more you sweat, the more toxins you eliminate.
These poses fully develop the strength and health of the body. The series of practices make this possible. Ashtanga Yoga uses three primary postures.
The three are classified on different levels.
- The first is the Primary Series which aims on aligning the body and also detoxifying it.
- The second is the Intermediate Series opening and cleaning the energy channels which comes to the process of purifying the Nervous System.
- The last series would be the Advanced Series from A to D. This series measures grace and strength, highlighting both qualities in action.
The Tristhana is another yoga principle which represents the union of the three places of action and attention. First is the posture, second is the breathing technique and last is the Dristhi of the Looking Place. All these three should work together to perform a function.
Breathing techniques are simultaneous and synchronized. It is important to make a single breath for one movement. Ujjayi Breathing is the Yoga Breathing Technique used in the application of Ashtanga Yoga. Continue applying this technique after every practice for long-lasting results.
What you need to master is holding your pose longer at the same time holding your breath.
This is an amazing breathing exercise that will increase your internal fire and will strengthen the Nervous System.
Both Ashtanga and Tristhana deal with the series of Dristhi. Dristhi is the focal point where you direct your attention and focus while performing the Asana.This enables your mind to be purified and stabilized clearly.
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