Our Yoga Practise"
Asthanga Yoga
Ashtanga Yoga is a traditional and dynamic style of yoga that originated in Mysore, India. It was developed by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, who passed away in 2009, and is now continued by his grandson, R. Sharath Jois. Ashtanga Yoga is also known as "Eight-Limbed Yoga," referring to the eight branches or stages of yoga practice outlined by the ancient sage Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras.
Ashtanga Yoga is a physically demanding practice that consists of a set sequence of postures, or asanas, that are performed in a specific order. The practice involves synchronized breath with movement, known as Vinyasa, which creates heat and purifies the body through sweat. The practice is typically divided into three series: Primary, Intermediate, and Advanced, each of which builds upon the previous one in terms of difficulty and intensity.
The primary series, known as Yoga Chikitsa, focuses on detoxifying and aligning the body, building strength, and improving flexibility. The intermediate series, called Nadi Shodhana, continues to build strength and flexibility, while also opening the energy channels in the body. The advanced series, called Sthira Bhaga, is designed for experienced practitioners who have a deep understanding of the practice and have developed a high level of physical and mental strength.
In addition to the physical practice, Ashtanga Yoga also emphasizes the importance of meditation, breath control, and ethical principles. Practitioners are encouraged to develop self-discipline and self-awareness through their practice, both on and off the mat.
Overall, Ashtanga Yoga is a challenging yet rewarding practice that can help individuals cultivate physical and mental strength, flexibility, and focus. It is suitable for practitioners of all levels, as modifications can be made to accommodate individual needs and abilities.
Yin Yoga
Yin Yoga is a slow-paced, meditative style of yoga that targets the connective tissues, such as ligaments, tendons, and fascia, in the body. It was developed in the late 1970s by Paulie Zink, a martial arts expert, and later popularized by Paul Grilley and Sarah Powers.
In Yin Yoga, poses are held for an extended period of time, typically between three to five minutes or longer, with the muscles relaxed. This allows for a deeper release and stretch in the connective tissues, which tend to be more dense and less flexible than muscles. The practice also focuses on the breath, encouraging practitioners to slow down and deepen their breathing to promote relaxation and mindfulness.
Yin Yoga poses are typically seated or lying down, and involve gentle stretches that are held for a longer duration. Some common poses include Dragon, Butterfly, and Shoelace. Props, such as blocks and blankets, may be used to support the body in the poses and help with proper alignment.