Introduction to Ashtanga Yoga
The meaning of Ashtanga is eight (Ashta) and limb (anga), therefore Ashtanga yoga is a form of yoga's eight limb practice.
Each practice supports the other.
Synchronizing is the key; each limb or practice has to be synchronized with the other.
Learning the practice of abstinence, close observations, good posture, controlled breathing, concentration, complete absorption in meditation, withdrawing from distractions, and bringing everything into harmony are the eight limbs to achieve in Ashtanga yoga.
Many yoga schools embrace Ashtanga yoga as a complete practice for spiritual and external cleansing.
The goal in yoga is to achieve personal health and well being, thereby living a happier life.
Ashtanga helps achieve this.
Most yoga practitioners already use the third limb (posture) but are so focused on posture they do not think about the other seven limbs.
The fourth practice - controlled breathing, is perfect for relaxation.
Finding a spot and focusing on it can teach you focus.
Learning to relax your mind and body can aid in meditation and help you gain control of the senses.
This in turn will give us greater awareness of our inner most being.
Regularly using Ashtanga and coupling it with devotion will raise our consciousness to new levels.
Ashtanga is excellent to cleanse us physically, psychologically and spiritually.
In exploring the components of Ashtanga and its eight limbs there is four external components and four internal components.
Breathing is to yoga as a heart is to man.
Movement and controlled breathing in the correct order creates a heat that purifies internal organs and muscles.
The body expels toxins and releases hormones.
Massaging the sweat back into the skin can give the body much needed minerals.
Circulation is improved resulting in a stronger body.
To some, yoga (especially Ashtanga) is difficult.
Increasing coordination, gaining flexibility and learning how to relax present a challenge.
Like any exercise regime, you just have to be relentless and stick it out.
It becomes easier as you practice it.
It doesn't take long to become a practicing yogi.
Although difficult at first, the rewards of Ashtanga are priceless.
You will find strength you never knew you had!
Each practice supports the other.
Synchronizing is the key; each limb or practice has to be synchronized with the other.
Learning the practice of abstinence, close observations, good posture, controlled breathing, concentration, complete absorption in meditation, withdrawing from distractions, and bringing everything into harmony are the eight limbs to achieve in Ashtanga yoga.
Many yoga schools embrace Ashtanga yoga as a complete practice for spiritual and external cleansing.
The goal in yoga is to achieve personal health and well being, thereby living a happier life.
Ashtanga helps achieve this.
Most yoga practitioners already use the third limb (posture) but are so focused on posture they do not think about the other seven limbs.
The fourth practice - controlled breathing, is perfect for relaxation.
Finding a spot and focusing on it can teach you focus.
Learning to relax your mind and body can aid in meditation and help you gain control of the senses.
This in turn will give us greater awareness of our inner most being.
Regularly using Ashtanga and coupling it with devotion will raise our consciousness to new levels.
Ashtanga is excellent to cleanse us physically, psychologically and spiritually.
In exploring the components of Ashtanga and its eight limbs there is four external components and four internal components.
Breathing is to yoga as a heart is to man.
Movement and controlled breathing in the correct order creates a heat that purifies internal organs and muscles.
The body expels toxins and releases hormones.
Massaging the sweat back into the skin can give the body much needed minerals.
Circulation is improved resulting in a stronger body.
To some, yoga (especially Ashtanga) is difficult.
Increasing coordination, gaining flexibility and learning how to relax present a challenge.
Like any exercise regime, you just have to be relentless and stick it out.
It becomes easier as you practice it.
It doesn't take long to become a practicing yogi.
Although difficult at first, the rewards of Ashtanga are priceless.
You will find strength you never knew you had!