What is Ashtanga Yoga?
“The full Ashtanga System practiced with devotion leads to freedom within one’s heart.” – K. Pattabhi Jois
From the divine yoga background emerges the physically intense and athletic form of Ashtanga Yoga. This system originates from the ancient text Yoga Korunta by sage Vamana Rishi and was later codified by the revered K. Pattabhi Jois as modern-day classical yoga. Ashtanga literally translates to ‘eight-limbs,’ outlined by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, which include yamas, niyamas, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi.
Ashtanga Yoga is a structured practice of prescribed yoga postures that channel energy through the body locks (bandhas) and focus on a particular point (drishti) in asanas. It comprises six series, with the Primary Ashtanga Yoga Series being the foundation. The three elements of Ashtanga Yoga—Ujjayi breath, bandhas, and drishti—make this yoga form a cleansing and moving meditation practice.
The Top 10 Benefits of Ashtanga Yoga (Ashtanga Yoga Health Benefits)
Practiced in two ways, Ashtanga Yoga is a sacred science that offers numerous benefits for the body, mind, and soul. Here are the health benefits that transform a yogi’s life for the better:
- Improvement in Core Endurance
- Core endurance is associated with lower back pain, especially in athletes. Regular practice of this Yoga poses can significantly improve core endurance and alleviate related problems.
- Enhanced Flexibility
- It gradually enhances flexibility when practiced daily. The postures work efficiently in building hamstring flexibility, which influences trunk movements and spine health. It also promotes shoulder and calf flexibility.
- Reduced Stubborn Body Fat
- Enjoy a lean body and natural fat loss benefits of Ashtanga Yoga. The poses use body weight, helping practitioners achieve a toned physique. Vigorous Yoga poses detoxify the body, aiding in fat loss from the stomach and arms and promoting greater body awareness.
- Builds Inner Strength
- The use of bandhas (locks) during practice teaches Ashtangis how to harness and direct prana flow. Focusing on the pelvis, throat, and belly bandhas provides strength and stability, helping the body work with its inherent energies.
- Relief from Stress
- This Yoga focuses on practicing the same sequence of postures. With dedication, practitioners naturally begin to focus on physical movements coordinated with the breath, making it a moving meditation that leaves you relaxed, refreshed, and rejuvenated.
- Learn to Breathe
- In stressful times, learning yogic breathing is essential. This Yoga employs Ujjayi Breathing, the art of taking purified air through the nostrils. Ujjayi breathing fuels metabolic fires, increases prana, and vitalizes the system.
- Treats Hypertension
- Synchronizing this yoga poses with Ujjayi Pranayama benefits health. Long-term practice of Ujjayi breathing lowers high blood pressure in people suffering from hypertension.
- Healthy Back
- It tones lower abdominal muscles, realigns the musculoskeletal system, and effectively diminishes backaches. It is a natural way to achieve a strong and healthy back.
- Prevents Injury
- When performed safely and mindfully, under experienced teachers, Ashtanga Yoga grants a strong, flexible, and internally balanced body that is less prone to injuries and health problems.
- A Plan for Wellness
- Practitioners can feel the difference in their body, mind, and attitude when they practice this Yoga. It connects us to our centre and helps us act from our authentic self.
Read More – How To Find Best Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training School In India
Conclusion
Ashtanga Yoga offers profound benefits that extend beyond physical health. It connects the practitioner to their highest nature, promoting inner peace and well-being. Embrace the transformative power of this yoga and embark on a journey of self-discovery and holistic wellness.
For more information on yoga programs, visit Rishikul Yogshala. To explore specific training programs, check out our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in Kerala, 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training in Kerala, and 500-hour Yoga Teacher Training in Kerala. You can also rejuvenate with our Ayurveda Retreat in Kerala or Yoga Retreat in Kerala.
