Discover the Sub-genre of Ashtanga Yoga

What is Ashtanga Yoga and which style of yoga does it belong to?

Ashtanga Yoga is a sub-genre of Hatha Yoga that involves practicing a specific sequence of poses in a particular order to build strength, flexibility, and mental focus.

Exploring Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga is a rigorous and dynamic style of yoga that follows a set series of poses known as the Primary Series. This traditional form of yoga is based on the teachings of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois and focuses on synchronizing breath with movement as practitioners move through the sequence.

Relation to Hatha Yoga

Hatha Yoga is a foundational style of yoga that emphasizes physical postures and breathing techniques. It is a gentle and slower-paced practice that aims to balance the body and mind. Ashtanga Yoga, as a sub-genre of Hatha Yoga, retains some of the fundamental principles of Hatha Yoga while incorporating a more structured sequence of poses.

Sequence and Progression

In Ashtanga Yoga, students progress through the Primary Series of poses in a specific order. Each pose is interconnected, and practitioners move from one pose to the next seamlessly. As students gain proficiency and strength, they may advance to the Intermediate Series and eventually the Advanced Series.

Benefits of Ashtanga Yoga

Practicing Ashtanga Yoga can lead to a wide range of benefits, including improved physical strength, flexibility, and mental focus. This style of yoga challenges practitioners both physically and mentally, helping them cultivate discipline and mindfulness on and off the mat.

Conclusion

Ashtanga Yoga, as a sub-genre of Hatha Yoga, offers a structured and transformative yoga practice that can help individuals enhance their physical and mental well-being. By following the pre-defined sequences and focusing on alignment and breath, practitioners of Ashtanga Yoga can experience growth and progress in their practice.