Bernardina

Discover Ashtanga Yoga

Have you been thinking about doing yoga for a long time, but prefer more dynamic sports to it? Try Ashtanga Yoga! She combines dynamics with breathing practices, adhering to the principle: do not give in to the weakness of the human body, but demand that it achieve the ideal.

What is the meaning of Ashtanga yoga?

Ashtanga yoga – a very complex and dynamic type of yoga - was developed by Pattabhi Joyce and translated from Sanskrit means "yoga of the eight steps". This is a very dynamic and demanding practice. Its task is to intensively warm up the body from the inside, which helps to cleanse the body of toxins. It is based on the synchronization of breathing with the sequential performance of asanas.



Asana is the stage of taking certain poses during yoga. The sequence of asanas is usually performed under the guidance of an instructor. Regular performance of asanas will increase the endurance of your body, strengthen muscles, develop flexibility. However, Ashtanga yoga is not only physical, but also spiritual development. Moral and ethical principles, work on breathing, control over your feelings, meditation and concentration are very important here. However, it is better to start with physical practice, the other aspects are more advanced.



Among other things, practicing this type of yoga effectively helps to reduce weight and cleanse the body. However, other sports can also boast of this. It is important that Ashtanga yoga affects not only the body, but also the mind, reducing stress levels and improving concentration.


How is the first lesson going?

As a rule, the lesson begins and ends with a traditional chant in Sanskrit. Then, before you start performing a series of basic asanas, you perform the sun salutation several times. The lesson lasts 60-90 minutes. Students cannot move on to performing asanas of a more complex level until they have perfected the performance of asanas from the basic series. The teacher always helps by giving advice on improving the technique of performing certain asanas so that you can move on faster. But if you don't want the instructor to interfere, warn him before starting classes. In some yoga centers, the principle of non-interference of teachers in the process of mastering poses is at the forefront. There you can even put a sign "no help needed" next to your mat before the class starts.



Be prepared that some asanas may not work out right away – there's nothing to worry about! Everyone learns Ashtanga yoga in their own rhythm. Accept the possibilities of your body and do not torment it.



Get ready for the fact that it will be very hot, despite the fact that unlike Hot (Bikram) yoga, Ashtanga yoga is not practiced at high temperatures. Drink plenty of water – it will help to cope with the load and cleanse the body.


What will you need?

Leggings or shorts. Leggings are preferable – they are able to absorb sweat and help in performing poses, preventing slipping when body parts come into contact.

Top - choose the most comfortable top that does not restrict movement during asanas and is made of thin fabric with breathable properties

Anti-slip mat;

Towel to wipe off sweat;

Accessories: bricks, belts that will help you in mastering poses in which you have not yet achieved perfection.

Good luck in overcoming the boundaries of your own body!