Brighton and Hove
Hatha Yoga
Astanga Vinyasa is one branch of the Hatha yoga tree. Astanga means 'eight limbs' and
Vinyasa refers to the connection of movement with the breath. Patanjali's
Yoga Sutras define the eight limbs of yoga as:
- Yama - moral and ethical disciplines
- Niyama - self discipline
- Asana - posture
- Pranayama - control of prana using the breath
- Pratyahara - withdrawal of the senses
- Dharana - concentration
- Dhyana - meditation
- Samadhi - total consciousness or enlightenment.
Astanga Vinyasa yoga asanas are performed in a set sequence, each one flowing into the
next by following the wave of the breath. Ginny teaches the Primary Series, the first of six such
sequences. The Primary Series is often referred to as yoga chikitsa, meaning yoga therapy, due to its
cleansing and calming effect on the mind, body and senses.
The breath is the foundation of the practice and using
deep ujjayi breathing combined
with the bandhas and asanas, the body is heated internally encouraging flexibility and allowing
detoxification and healing to take place. Regular practice creates a strong, healthy and light body.
By focusing the attention on the drishtis, external distractions are eliminated and mental chatter gradually ceases, rendering the mind calm and steady. The entire practice eventually develops a meditative quality under the guidance of the breath.
For more information on yoga for beginners click here.