What is Ashtanga yoga and how is it different from the common yoga practice?

Ashtanga yoga is an aerobic and much more energetic form of yoga that was devised by Kirshnamacharya for young, restless boys to channel their energies. After a period of time and with boys becoming of age Ashtanga yoga has evolved and became more stable and focused practice. Many westerners studied under Kirshnamacharya and it is said he had a huge impact on the development of yoga taught today. Kirshnamacharya has also tailored all series of Ashtanga yoga for the particular individual or group of people he was practicing with at the time.

Ashtanga refers to the 8 limbs of yoga, however that does not describe the poses yoga practitioner does nor does it refer to any particular sequence of poses. What is a main difference between Ashtanga yoga and the rest of the yoga styles? Apart from being more aerobic and energetic, Ashtanga yoga concentrates on vinyasa or translated loosely the intelligent putting together of all things.

There are 5 main components of Ashtanga yoga – it is the above-mentioned vinyasa (breath and movement synchronized), Dhristi (or the gaze points), heat, breath and Bandhas (or internal locks). Ashtnaga yoga is a sequence of Hatha posture in a combination with breath and Bandhas (internal muscle contraction). And when this sequence is done correctly the result is deep meditative state and internal heat. Bandhas or internal locks are so-called energy gates and if engaged correctly the body’s energy is channel, engaged and internal heat is produced. Dhristis are gaze points inwards where one directs attention and breathing technique used with this type of yoga practice also helps with the internal heat production, with the aim of inner cleansing.

There are many benefits of Ashtanga yoga. It is said to reduce stress, develops mental focus and more endurance, but there are plenty of benefits for your body as well, some of which include building strength, improved lung capacities, flexibility and muscle tone, but also with all the internal heat that is being produced by this practice it helps with detoxification and purification of the body. Do not let the fact this is airy fairy yoga practice put you off, with Ashtanga yoga you are getting more focused and in control of your breathing but you are also getting the benefits of an intense cardiovascular workout.