débutant · styles de yoga · yoga · Feb 03, 2023

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Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga is a traditional yoga style that dates back centuries in India. It was popularized in the Western world in the 1970s by Pattabhi Jois, an Indian yoga teacher.

Pattabhi Jois (1915-2009) was a renowned Indian yoga teacher, known for creating and popularizing Ashtanga Yoga. He was born in southern India, in the city of Kovalam, and began practicing yoga at the age of 12 under the guidance of his guru, T. Krishnamacharya.

Jois spent several years studying with Krishnamacharya, learning not only yoga techniques but also the principles of philosophy and meditation. After graduating, he began teaching in Mysore, India, where he developed and taught his own method of yoga, Ashtanga Yoga.

Ashtanga Yoga focuses on synchronizing movement and breath, with dynamic sequences of postures called "Series." This type of yoga is designed to strengthen the body, purify the nervous system, and awaken spiritual energies through daily practice and the repetition of the series.

Over the years, Pattabhi Jois traveled the world to teach Ashtanga Yoga, and his method became one of the most popular worldwide. He trained many students who became renowned teachers themselves, continuing to spread the practice of Ashtanga Yoga. Pattabhi Jois passed away in 2009, but his legacy lives on through his family and students, who continue to teach Ashtanga Yoga around the world.

Since then, Ashtanga Yoga has gained popularity for its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. In this article, we will divide Ashtanga Yoga into three parts: its origins, the flow of an Ashtanga Yoga class, and who this style of yoga is for.

The origins of Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga is based on ancient yoga texts such as Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. However, it was formally developed by Pattabhi Jois, who spent several years studying under the tutelage of T. Krishnamacharya, a great yoga master of his time. Pattabhi Jois founded the Shri K. Pattabhi Jois Yoga Centre in Mysore, India, where he began teaching Ashtanga Yoga to students from all over the world.

The flow of an Ashtanga Yoga class

Ashtanga Yoga is known for being a dynamic and physical style of yoga. Ashtanga Yoga classes generally follow a fixed sequence of postures, called Asanas, which are linked by fluid movements called Vinyasas. This sequence is taught in a specific order, which helps practitioners focus on their breath and develop their strength and flexibility. Ashtanga Yoga classes can last between 60 and 90 minutes and can be practiced daily.

Who Ashtanga Yoga is for

Ashtanga Yoga is a style of yoga accessible to all levels, but can be particularly beneficial for people wishing to develop their strength and flexibility. Dynamic postures and fluid movements can help increase blood circulation and improve posture. Additionally, Ashtanga Yoga can help calm the mind and relieve stress. It is a particularly popular style of yoga for those wishing to develop a regular and effective yoga practice.

In conclusion, Ashtanga Yoga is an ancient and traditional style of yoga that can bring many benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual health, regardless of your level.

To explore the main families of yoga and find the practice that suits you best, consult our complete guide to styles.