ashtanga:
the eight limbs of yoga

Ashtanga is a healing method of yoga. The practice invites you to connect to your breath, letting your movements follow your breathing. The sequence of postures has variations for all levels. It’s best learned one-to-one, step by step (Mysore style). Gradually, you memorize your practice for a mindful, moving meditation experience. Ready to add a practice to your life that makes you feel strong, steady, and inspired?

ELEMENTS OF PRACTICE
Breath
Breath is key. It’s the engine that feeds the practice. The breathing technique during yoga practice is through the nose, making a gentle sound in the base of the throat. Inhales and exhales are smooth and even. This way of breathing throughout practice builds internal heat, cleanses the body, and calms the mind and nervous system.

Vinyasa
Vinyasa means union of breath with movement. The Sanskrit word translates, to place in a special way. Simply put, breath leads movement—literally. Each asana has a vinyasa; a way of entering and exiting the posture coordinated with an inhale or exhale. Vinyasa helps purify the body and calm the mind.

Asana
Asana means posture. These are connected in the sequence and gradually build strength and energy. It’s best to practice consistently with an experienced teacher. Each asana has variations to fit your individual needs, meeting you where you’re at.

Dristi
Dristi is the gazing point. There are nine places of dristi. Keeping the eyes soft and at one point helps to focus the mind and improve posture alignment. Dristi increases awareness and concentration, bringing you into the flow state.

Bandha
Bandhas are used with the breath to direct energy in practice. This happens through mula bandha (root lock; lifting of pelvic floor) and uddhiyana bandha (lower abdominal lock). Engaging bandhas seal in energy, giving lightness and strength to the body.

Tristana
Tristana consists of three places of awareness during practice: breath, posture (asana), gazing point (dristi). Focusing on these three elements gives you a mindful, moving meditation experience. It also purifies on three levels: nervous system, body, and mind.