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​​Ashtanga vinyasa yoga is based on Vinyasa, a dynamic connection between static postures (asanas). This yoga system comprises 3 series of asanas, which are learnt in a predetermined, fixed sequence : primary, intermediate, and advanced. The advanced series is further subdivided in advanced A, B, C and D. The first series (Yoga chikitsa, body therapy) detoxifies and aligns the body, the intermediate series (Nadi Shodana, nervous system purification) cleanses the nervous system by opening the energy channels while the advanced series A, B, C and D (Shtira Bhaga, steady strength) require higher levels of strength and flexibility, and integrate the whole system. The dedicated practice of ashtanga results in a light, strong, steady body and a focused, balanced and confident mind.

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Sri K. Patthabi Jois

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The modern practice of ashtanga was founded by Sri K. Patthabi Jois (1915-2009), who received direct teaching from the very influential Sri T. Krishnamasharya (who also taught, among others, B.K.S.Iyengar). Patthabi Jois taught in Mysore, India, hence the phrase "mysore-style" referring to the traditional way of teaching and practicing ashtanga: each student moves at their own pace, following their own breathing rythm and according to their level. This method teaches students to develop an independent practice.​

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8 limbs

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In Sanskrit, Ashtanga means "eight limbs". According to the founding text of yoga, Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, there are eight aspects to yoga. In the West, we are mostly familar with the 3rd limb, asana (posture); it is the first element we are introduced to. It prepares us for the other limbs which are yama (moral code, moral restraints), niyama (observance, self-purification and study), pranayama (breath control), pratyahara (withdrawal of the mind from the senses), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation), and samadhi (complete meditation, meditative absorption).

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​​​Tristana

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There are three places of attention when practicing asanas: breath, looking place and bandhas. Together they are known as Tristana. Their combination is the foundation of the practice of ashtanga.

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​​° Ujjayi breath: the importance of breathing cannot be overemphasized in ashtanga vinyasa yoga. The main focus of the practice is not on perfect body alignment but on the coordination of breath and movement. The ujjayi breath (victorious breath, also know as ocean breath or fire breath) that is used throughout practice is a controlled, balanced, deep way of breathing which builds internal heat in the body, activates blood circulation and increases oxygenation, During practice, it is the breath that guides us, gives us energy and strength and carries us from movement to movement, helps us flow effortlessly from one pose to the next.​​

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​° Drishti: To each movement there is a corresponding gazing point, or drishti. Drishti helps to build concentration by bringing the attention to a single point of focus and thus withdrawing the mind from the distractions of the outer world that are perceived by the senses. There are 9 gazing points in yoga,

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​° Bandhas : energy locks that are used to conduct the breath through the body and to control energy. There are three bandhas. Mula bandha is activated by contracting the pelvic floor muscles. It should be used continuously during practice as it is one of the key building blocks for establishing strenght and stability. Uddiyana bandha is achieved by drawing the abdomen in. When activated and combined with ujjayi breath, these two bandhas provide deep internal strength, creating lightness and steadiness in the asanas. Jalandhara bandha is the chin lock, activated when lowering the chin.

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​And now, Samastitihi!

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Samasitihi recommends in addition to the classes in Brussels, Yoga studies with senior teachers in India and Grece:

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    Shri K. Patthabi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute (Mysore):  http://kpjayi.org/

    Patanjala Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga (Mysore): http://www.sheshadri.com/

    Yoga Practice (Ashtanga Yoga Greece): http://www.yogapractice.gr/

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Samasitithi asbl also recommends sanskrit classes in Brussels with Shantala Sriramaiah:

www.sanskritbelgium.com 

https://www.facebook.com/SanskritBelgium/?fref=ts 

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