Ashtanga Yoga: The Concept and Benefits

by Aditya Khanna Marketing Consultant

Yoga is invigoration in relaxation. Freedom in routine. Confidence through self-control. Energy within and energy without.  -Ymber Delecto

"Yoga" literally means "union", the union of the mind, body and soul. It is the union of the individual consciousness or soul with the Universal Consciousness or Spirit. Ashtanga yoga is a system of yoga started by the sage Vamana Rishi in the Yoga Korunta. Yoga Kuranta is a primeval manuscript which contains lists of different categories of asanas, as well as highly unique teachings on vinyasa, drishti, bandhas, mudras, and philosophy." Ashtanga yoga literally means "eight-limbed yoga," as outlined by the sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. Its eight limbs are as follows:

• ·         Yama (moral codes)
  
• ·         Niyama (self-purification and study)
  
• ·         Asana (posture)
  
• ·         Pranayama (breath control)
  
• ·         Pratyahara (sense control)
  
• ·         Dharana (concentration)
  
• ·         Dhyana (meditation)
  
• ·         Samadhi (absorption into the Universal)
  

The first four limbs—yama, niyama, asana, pranayama—are considered external cleansing practices. These defects are correctable according to Pattabhi Jois. But, defects in the internal cleansing practices—pratyahara, dharana, dhyana—are not correctable and can be dangerous to the mind and body. So, it is utterly important to follow the right Ashtanga Yoga method.

"Through the practice of pranayama, the mind becomes arrested in a single direction and follows the movement of the breath" (Jois 2002 23) and Pranayama forms the basis for the internal cleansing practices of Ashtanga yoga (Flynn).

The four internal cleansing practices—pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and Samadhi calm the mind and when purification of the mind, body and soul is complete, the Six Venoms surrounding us, kama (desire), krodha (anger), moha (delusion), lobha (greed), matsarya (sloth), and mada (envy) vanishes one by one, completely revealing the Universal Self.

"The method for purifying and strengthening the body is called asana". - Pattabhi Jois

(In America, "Ashtanga Yoga" most often refers to the system taught by Indian yoga master K. Pattabhi Jois.)

To perform all asanas in the right way in Ashtanga yoga, one must integrate the use of vinyasa and tristhana. The Ashtanga asans help in detoxifying and aligning the body, purifying the nervous system by opening and clearing the energy channels and integrating the strength and grace of the practice that requires higher levels of flexibility and humility. It also develops flexibility, improves circulation tones muscles, lubricates joints, massages internal organs, and helps with weight loss as well.

Yoga Teacher Training India courses includes a variety of courses for immediate level and professionals to pursue a successful career in the field of yoga. Rishikul Yogshala’s courses are certificated by the Yoga Alliance is one of the top rated yoga retreats in India.

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Created on Oct 18th 2017 02:00. Viewed 632 times.

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