Ashtanga Vinyasa is a branch of the Hatha yoga system that integrates breath with movement in a seamless flow of asanas. Each pose has its own unique series of movements (vinyasa) leading into and out of it. Regular practice of Ashtanga Vinyasa can help enhance strength, flexibility, and endurance, while also promoting overall well-being and mental focus.
This method was developed by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in Mysore, following the teachings of his mentor, Sri T. Krishnamacharya. Initially, this form of yoga was designed to train soldiers in the Maharaja of Mysore's army. Pattabhi Jois started teaching Western students in Mysore in the mid-1960s and later traveled globally, spreading this style of yoga at the invitation of his students.
In Ashtanga Yoga, practitioners repeat a specific sequence of postures each time they practice. This repetition allows the sequence to become familiar, facilitating the development of a personal practice. When practiced with attention and adapted to individual needs, Ashtanga Yoga can be highly therapeutic.
The core practices of Ashtanga Yoga include the Tristana technique (asana, ujjayi breath, and drishti), Vinyasa (synchronized breath and movement), and bandhas (energy locks). During your Yoga Teacher Training Course (TTC), you will learn the Primary series of asanas and practice them in both guided classes and Mysore style, which will help you grow stronger and memorize the sequence. These sessions will be conducted under the careful supervision of your asana teacher.
In your teaching methodology classes, you will learn all the Primary series postures and how to modify and adjust them to suit different anatomical needs. In the philosophy sessions, you will delve into the principles of Ashtanga Yoga, exploring the eight limbs of Raja Yoga as described by the ancient philosopher Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras.
