I have been practising yoga since July 2002. My first experience with yoga was with Bikram Yoga, moving on to general Hatha Yoga in the Sivananda style, and now Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.
Practising Yoga
A good website for 'newbies' to yoga is yogajournal.com
Specifically, read their article on the various styles of yoga.
Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga Yoga is the system of hatha yoga taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois of Mysore, India. This system includes a number of series, each series consisting of a set sequence of poses or asanas. Ashtanga Yoga uses a powerful and dynamic practice in which poses are linked to one another through the synchronization of movement and breath.
The primary difference between Ashtanga Yoga and other forms of hatha yoga is the use of vinyasa, the principle of flowing movement synchronized with the breath. In addition to creating strength, flexibility and a purifying sweat, using vinyasa as the foundation of the practice, draws the mind inward, towards the Self, which creates a meditation-in-motion, a state of well-being, mental clarity and an open heart.
Another difference is that Ashtanga Yoga follows prescribed sequences of asanas (postures). Each asana grows out of the one before it and is preparation for the next. Adhering to the sequence also prevents the practitioner from focusing only on his or her individual strengths while avoiding his or her weaknesses.
The result is improved circulation, a light and strong body, and a calm mind.
More about Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute http://www.ayri.org/
- Sri K. Pattabhi Jois' website on everything Ashtanga, including biography and info on studying yoga in Mysore, India
- Information on the method of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
Ashtanga Yoga in Germany http://ashtangayoga.info
- great pictures of the various asanas (postures) in the various series
David Swenson's website http://www.ashtanga.net
Documentary about K. Pattabhi Jois - Guru
Photos:
My practice:
- July 2005 on Sandton City rooftop
Guruji's Tour to London UK, March 2006
- with Sri K. Pattabhi Jois
- with Sharath
