Ashtanga yoga
By: Stephen NadlerTotal Views: 257, Word Count: 546,
Ashtanga yoga is a form of yoga which denotes the eight limbs which are present in an individual’s body. This form of yoga refers to the eight important limbs of the yoga sutras of patanjali. Ashtanga yoga finds its existence from an ancient text called the yoga korunta.
Information on ashtanga yoga-
The term ashtanga yoga literally means the eight limbs which are: yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi.
Yama: Yama consists of five main parts which are- aparigraha or non- covetousness, brahmacharya or celibacy, asteya or abstaining from robbing, satya or being honest with oneself and ahimsa or taking the path of complete non-violence.
Asana: Asana is a proper posture which focuses on breaking away from various tensions in the mind and the body.
Pratyahara: Pratyahara aids in providing internal strength by getting free of various interruptions, it helps in the development of will – power.
Dharana: Dharana is focus during meditation.
Dhyana: Dhyana is doing away with any sort of material attachments, subtle yearnings, slothfulness and gluttony.
Samadhi: Samadhi deals with four impediments which are abhnivesha or fondness of the world, asmita – egoism, avidya – ignorance and raga –dvesha which consists of all likes and dislikes.
Ashtanga yoga deals with six different series which a student goes through at his or her own distinct pace. Not all students would have a same pace of progression. Ashtanga yoga entails daily vinyasa – flow practice, ujjayi- breathing, uddiyana bandha, drishti and mula bandha.
Ashtanga yoga is an athletic and energetic method of practice, it lends a hand to people who like order and who prefer to carry on their duties in an independent fashion.
Ashtanga yoga deals with three different levels.
The three levels in ashtanga yoga are-
1) Align the body and get rid of toxins.
2) Clean and open the various energy channels which would aid in cleansing the nervous system.
3) Measure power and grace when one advances in the yoga form.
Some well known benefits of ashtanga yoga are-
1) Ashtanga yoga aids in strengthening the nervous system. Its works for realigning the spine, improves stamina, flexibility and strength. The toxins present in the body find a way out with the help of ashtanga yoga.
2) With the practice of ashtanga yoga, sore muscles and joint pains are relieved. The muscles in the body get toned and become more agile. The techniques used in yoga, include several movements of the knee joints, neck, hands and lower limbs.
3) The organs present all over the body are made to function in a much more effective manner.
4) Along with physical benefits, ashtanga yoga provides excellent mental and emotional benefits. The ability to focus is improved and negative energy is released.
5) Ashtanga yoga is both rehabilitative and therapeutic in nature. One can practice this yoga form at ones own pace and fitness level.
Before taking up classes for ashtanga yoga, it would be beneficial to take advice from your health care provider for proper guidance. With ashtanga yoga you can work towards improving your overall health.
About the Author
Stephen Nadler is renowned yoga specialist and has been teaching yoga since 1999. He offers integrated approach, suitable for all levels with emphasis on alignment and breath, awareness in minds and mental relaxation. Moreover, he takes individual yoga classes for pregnant ladies.
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