Ashtanga

About Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga is a vigorous practice which invites students to move through sun salutations and a set sequence of poses linked by the ujjayi breath, a specific breathing technique that heats the body. The combination of breath, posture and movement helps to stretch and strengthen the body, release impurities, and focus and calm the mind.

The practice of Ashtanga yoga was reintroduced to the modern world by Sri. K. Pattabhi Jois allowing students to experience this ancient and powerful discipline for cultivating physical, mental and spiritual health. Some studios or gyms offer “Hot Yoga” or “Power Yoga” which is loosely based on Ashtanga, but at Yoga on High, we honor the traditional, classic form.

New students are introduced the practice during a 10-week New Beginners Series, then they can moved to either the Modified Primary Series or the full Primary Series. The curriculum also includes Mysore (assisted self-practice) and the Second Series.

Although Ashtanga has a reputation for being a demanding discipline, every pose can be modified so that this style can be practiced by anyone willing to work at it.