With the dizzying array of yoga styles being practiced the world over, it can often seem a little overwhelming when trying to understand the differences between them. While many of these varying disciplines may share similar characteristics, each type is unique and not all styles are suitable for every person wanting to practice yoga.

1. Ashtanga Yoga
Explained

2. With the dizzying array of yoga styles being practiced the world over, it can often
seem a little overwhelming when trying to understand the differences between
them. While many of these varying disciplines may share similar characteristics,
each type is unique and not all styles are suitable for every person wanting to
practice yoga.

3. One of the more popular forms of yoga is Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, a style of
practice that was developed in the 20th century. Let's take a look at Ashtanga
Vinyasa in a bit more detail:
What does Ashtanga yoga mean?
Ashtanga (sometimes spelled as ‘astanga’), translates literally from the ancient
language of Sanskrit as ‘eight limbs’. It refers to the eight aspects of branches of
yoga - observances, ethical codes, physical postures, breathwork, meditation,
and others - as they are described in the ‘Yoga Sutras’ of Patanjali. In this
context, many of the styles of contemporary yoga in the west are derived from
this seminal text.

4. How is Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga different?
This particular method of yoga was developed by K. Pattabhi Jois, based on
instruction he received from his teacher, the influential T. Krishnamacharya. The
basis of these practices comes primarily from interpretations of Patanjali's work
as well as other ancient texts, such as the ‘Yoga Korunta’.

5. What does Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga entail?
This type of yoga is physically demanding. It involves progressing through a set
series of poses focused on synchronizing the breath with postures that are
progressive and continuous. The combination of the two encourages you to
produce heat internally and assists in detoxify your body. The main aim for those
who practice in this style is to build physical strength and flexibility while
increasing stamina. Training the mind to be calm is also a large part of Ashtanga
Vinyasa yoga - as it is with most yogic practices - and many adherents feel that
this is the most important aspect of the practice.

6. Derivations of this form of yoga are often called ‘power yoga’ or ‘vinyasa flow.’
These are equally physically demanding styles of yoga, though they do not
adhere to the same strict sequence of postures outlined by Pattabhi Jois. Because
of their emphasis on challenging postures, these approaches are best suited to
practitioners who already have a baseline of fitness or who are interested in
pushing their body to explore their physical limits. Beginners will likely want to
start with more gentle Hatha yoga practices where they can learn the
fundamentals before jumping into an Ashtanga class.

7. Six levels of practice sequences
Traditional Ashtanga Vinyasa is comprised of six levels of sequences, each
successive sequence increasing in difficulty over the previous level. The first
level, often referred to as the primary series, is called Yoga Chikitsa, and means
yoga therapy. The series of poses is designed to realign the spine, build strength,
flexibility and stamina, and to detoxify the body. Taking up to two hours to
complete, the series begins with sun salutations and goes on to standing and
seated poses, inversions and backbends, and finishes with relaxation.

8. The second level or intermediate series is known as Nadi Shodana and means the
purification of the nervous system. This series can only be started once a
practitioner has fully mastered the primary series. The aim of the second series is
to cleanse and strengthen the nervous system and energy channels of the body. It
follows the similar order to the primary series, but includes a selection of new
poses and techniques.
The four advanced levels or series are called Sthira Bhaga, which translates as
‘divine stability’. These four series place their emphasis on challenging arm
balances and other difficult poses, and generally only practiced by advanced
students who have thoroughly mastered the initial two series.

9. Is Ashtanga the right style of yoga for me?
Despite being difficult and challenging for most, Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga is very
popular and many students become deeply devoted to the practice for the sense
of both strength and calm that it offers them. It can also provide an excellent
foundation for students who may eventually move on to other styles of yoga.

10. It's important to understand that the postures and breathing techniques
associated with all forms of yoga are not ends in themselves, but merely the
means to find balance and calm, to heal the body, and to quiet the mind. Yoga
provides a variety of tools to aid you in life - to help you connect and harmonize
with your inner self and to maintain your overall health and sense of wellbeing.
In the end, finding the practice that resonates most deeply with you and your
needs is more important than any other external factors. Let go of any
attachment to a specific style or type of yoga and concentrate on finding one that
feels right for your body, nourishes you emotionally, and calms your mind.

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