An Introduction to Ashtanga Yoga

Many people are curious about Ashtanga Yoga. What is it? Ashtsanga Yoga was developed by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (1915-2009). In Ashtanga Yoga, the practitioner performs a series of poses and concentrates on the breath. One of the chief aims of Ashtanga Yoga is to produce internal heat to produce purifying sweat in the body.

Ashtanga Yoga is sometimes known as a 'hot' yoga and may be practiced in a warm room in order to maximize the purification effects. Ashtanga Yoga will leave you feeling cleansed inside and out - unlike some very light forms of exercise, you will definitely need a shower when you are finished!

If you are taking an Ashtanga Yoga class for the first time, be prepared to sweat. However, the more basic exercises are less rigorous than those performed in advanced classes. The Ashtanga Yoga poses become more challenging as skill develops.

Pattabhi Jois was effective in bringing Ashtanga Yoga to the West and helping to give Yoga a broad appeal. Famous practitioners of Ashtanga Yoga include Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow. Many people are attracted to Ashtanga Yoga because of its rigorous approach and ability to deliver a good workout. In addition, Ashtanga Yoga has spirituality at its heart and helps practitioners to develop a sense of calm, balance and grace.

Ashtanga Yoga is thought to help with improving circulation and helping to reduce joint pain. However, before starting Ashtanga practice, check with a doctor who knows your medical history to find out if it would be an appropriate form of exercise for you. Also, choose a licensed and experienced instructor. Start with a beginner's class. Ashtanga Yoga, like other Yogas is taught at a variety of skill levels.

Ashtanga Yoga consists of a series of fluid movements and poses designed to purify the body. For a look at some basic Ashtanga poses, see the Youtube video posted at the end of this article.

Ashtanga Yoga is strongly linked to the cycles of Nature. A characteristic of Ashtanga Yoga is that it is not recommended to practice during the New Moon or Full Moon. You can find out more about this practice here.

You can also find a number of videos, DVDs and books about Ashtanga Yoga at Amazon and other book and video sellers. To avoid injury, choose a video or DVD which is suited to your level of skill.