ashtanga yoga

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The Guru of Ashtanga Yoga, Sri K. Patthabi Jois is affectionately known as Guriji to Ashtangis. He lives in Mysore, India, where he has established the Ashtanga Research Institute. Check out his website for more information about the history of the practice - ayri.org

Ashtanga Yoga is an ancient system of yoga that consists of a long series of postures, each one connected to the next through breath and movement. This connection is called vinyasa. The vinyasas create heat in the body, which allows you to stretch more deeply and more safely. The heat also allows the body to release toxins through sweat. Through regular practice, you develop strength, flexibilty, balance, and stamina.

Traditionally students memorize the Ashtanga series and practice it daily in a Mysore session, moving at their own pace without verbal instruction. New students should attend Fundamentals and Ashtanga Basics to learn the ashtanga sun salutations. Once you can practice sun salutations without instruction, you can attend Mysore practice sessions.

In Mysore sessions, students are taught the series one pose at a time. Students practice the series up to the pose they were given. When they've mastered the posture and the corresponding breath and vinyasa, the instructor teaches them the next pose. The series builds gradually so it is always challenging without being overwhelming.

Students progress faster when they practice many times a week. The practice requires commitment and patience. Ashtanga is not a new age fad, but an ancient tradition and discipline. It asks a lot of you, both mentally and physically, but the rewards are immeasurable.