THE PRINCIPLES OF ASHTANGA YOGA
THE PRINCIPLES OF ASHTANGA YOGA
Copyright 2005 Free Online Yoga Site
Ashtanga yoga is also known as the “eight-limbed yoga” because it incorporates in its discipline the eight spiritual practices recognized by the yogis and yoginis today. The first four are:
1. the yama (moral codes)
2. the niyama (self-purification)
3. the asana (posture)
4. the pranayama (control of breath)
They are the cleansing practices of Ashtanga yoga which are external in nature. These four limbs can be corrected by means of study and application, as they are concentrated on the physical aspects of one’s being.
The other four limbs are:
5. the pratyahara (sense control)
6. the dharana (concentration),
7. the dhyana (meditation)
8. the samadhi (contemplation)
These cannot be easily corrected because their nature is internal and they focus mainly on the manipulation of the mind and the promotion of its healthy development.
The difference between Ashtanga Yoga and other yoga classes is in the type of learning environment involved. Ashtanga Yoga students are taught on an individual basis, that is, one teacher for one student. These students, however, are responsible for their own practice and spiritual growth, and the teacher’s job is to merely facilitate the instructions. Additionally, silence is a pre-requisite in Ashtanga Yoga. It is important that no outside sound should be heard inside the room.
The most important factors of Ashtanga Yoga are the asanas (posture) and vinsayas (breathing with movement). In each asana comes a corresponding count of vinsayas. Postures cannot be completed without breathing and movements.
Perfecting the joint of asanas and vinsayas will be of help in correcting the four limbs which are internal in nature as we have discussed earler. How? Once asanas and vinsayas are done appropriately, the relaxation process will be achieved, and the same effect will occur in the mind. The mind must fully be attentive to realize the turmoil going on in a person’s spirit so that it may be able to correct it. Only then can the full mental and spiritual effect of Ashtanga Yoga be felt.
Ashtanga Yoga helps in improving blood circulation and relieves joint pains. It can also clear out the toxins out of the body. Ashtanga Yoga serves as a cleansing agent that works on the body, mind and spirit of a person – achieving the universal goal of general yoga practice.
If Ashtanga Yoga is done correctly, with a mind free from any unpurified thoughts, the practitioner may have a full realization of what the eight-limbed yoga is all about.
Enrich Your Mind body and Soul with the Power of Yoga. Download it Today:
http://www.conceiveandbelieve.com/yoga
Popularity: 21% [?]