Although only recently becoming popular in the West, Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga has a pedigree in India for over 5000 years. It bridges the divide between Hatha Yoga and Raja Yoga, and represents the practical unification of the 8 limbs of Yoga system of Patanjali. In Ashtanga, the individual postures (asanas) are linked together by a short, flowing sequence of movements called “Vinyasas” (literally, “setting out and returning”), which are further synchronised with the breath.
There is a natural progression towards a meditative state as one harmonies postures (asana), breathing (pranayama) and awareness (samyama) into a symbolic whole. Each element deepens and enriches the effect of the other, until one reaches a stage where there is no separation between mind, body and breath.
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is therefore one of the most complete systems of Yoga ever devised. The challenge offered by the Vinyasa system is as much mental as physical, demanding a continuous effort of concentration to maintain the momentum from one posture to the next. This does not mean that you must be super-fit to practice.
The aim of this technique is to naturally still the fluctuations of the mind through dynamic movements and breath, not to achieve gymnastic goals. To reach such a state of stillness and harmony through sitting meditation reuires a dedication and tenacity rarely available to people living this secular world. In this way, Vinyasa unites Hatha and Raja Yoga in a single, simple manner in which anyone can quickly realize spiritual progress.
