Vinyasa and Ashtanga are both dynamic styles of yoga that emphasize breath-synchronized movement. In addition, they are both physically challenging practices that can help build strength, flexibility, and endurance. However, there are some critical differences between the two styles.
Difference Between Ashtanga Yoga and Vinyasa Yoga, Ashtanga yoga is an ancient Indian science of the mind. It is an old system of self-realization and is a powerful and effective means of discovering truth and attaining freedom. Ashtanga yoga integrates the practices of postures, breathing techniques, lifestyle choices, and mental exercises to bring the mind under control and enable a life of peace and happiness. Through the practice of the Eight Limbs of Yoga described in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, we can “suspend the fluctuations of the mind” and find sustainable inner peace and stillness.
Who Is The Founder Of Ashtanga Yoga?
The modern approach to Ashtanga yoga is technically known as Ashtanga Vinyasa and gained popularity in the West following Sri K Patthabi Jois’ teachings in the late 20th century. The system had been passed to him by his guru Sri T. Krishnamacharya who had, in turn, gained knowledge from his Guru, Rama Mohan Brahmachari.
What Is Patanjali Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga is the ancient practice of yoga, meaning eight limbs or branches, and is described in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. It is an old system of self-realization, of which Asana is just one component. Ashtanga yoga integrates the practice of the eight limbs – including breathing techniques, postures, mental exercises, and lifestyle choices – to bring the mind under control and enable sustainable inner peace and happiness. Through dedicated practice, one can ‘suspend Ashtanga Primary Series asanas in India and attain freedom from suffering.
The modern method of Ashtanga yoga is technically known as the Ashtanga Vinyasa system. It is a series of asana sequences of increasing difficulty that work to strengthen, cleanse and purify the body in preparation for meditation and other higher yoga practices.
What Is The Primary Series In Ashtanga Yoga?
The first series of asana sequences in the Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga system is the Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa, Yoga Therapy). This series works to heal and align the body, focusing on the realignment of the spine and detoxification. Dedicated practice of the first series builds foundational strength, flexibility, and endurance in preparation for the following sequences.
What Is The Meaning Of Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga means ‘eight limbs’ (In Sanskrit, ‘Ashta’ means eight, and ‘Anga’ means limb). It is an ancient Indian science of the mind and is practiced to attain self-realization and discover the truth. Patanjali writes that yoga must be practiced with devotion and consistency. With regular practice and faith, the mind and body become strong, steady, and open, and the mind becomes clear and lucid. It is through training that we can realize the truth.
What Is The Difference Between Vinyasa And Ashtanga Yoga?
The teacher creates a different sequence each time in a vinyasa yoga class. Often there is a focus on strengthening or opening a specific body area. There is usually a slower warm-up followed by a more substantial sequence of asanas leading to a ‘peak’ of the class and then cooling postures. Classes are more or less vigorous, depending on the teacher. Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga is a dynamic yoga practice that synchronizes breath and movement. The exact sequence of asanas is followed each time, allowing the body to realign and detoxify. As students progress, they move to more advanced sequences. The first sequence is the Primary Series and focuses on building foundational strength and flexibility, including forwarding bends, twists, and hip openers.
How Many Levels Are There In Ashtanga Yoga?
The Ashtanga Vinyasa system comprises three groups of asana sequences that increase in difficulty and are designed to detox, realign, strengthen, and purify the body in preparation for higher yogic practices and meditation. The series is designed to build upon each other, with practitioners focussing on integrating each series’s physical and energetic benefits before moving on to the next. The mind and body are open when practiced regularly with correct alignment, dedication, and focus.
The first sequence is the Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa, Yoga Therapy). This series heals, detoxifies, and realigns the body so that the benefits of the subsequent sequences may be fully realized. Comprised of many forward bends, twists, and hip openers, this entire sequence builds strength and flexibility, focusing on the realignment of the spine and purifying the body of toxins. The second sequence is the Intermediate Series (Nadi Shodhana, cleansing of the Nadis). Following the dedicated practice of the Primary Series to prepare the body, practitioners will be ready to access the benefits of this series. The Nadis are subtle energy channels in the body, and by practicing the Intermediate Series, they are purified and balanced. The series continues to open and strengthen the body, including back bending, arm balances, and inversions.
The third sequence is the Advanced Series (Sthira Bhaga, Divine Stability). It is divided into four parts (A, B, C, and D) to make it more approachable. The practice of the Advanced Series cultivates inner strength and compassion. It requires high levels of humility and determination. The series includes deep back bending, deep twists and binds, advanced arm balances, and deep hip openers.
What Is Led Ashtanga Yoga?
In a led Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga class, the teacher instructs you through the sequence, explaining how to enter and leave each asana. The breath is counted so all students flow through the sequence simultaneously. The teacher may also perform adjustments and provide vocal cues to aid students in their alignment and their understanding of each asana. Tattvaa Yoga is offering you the best 200-hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh.
What Is Led Ashtanga Yoga?
In a led Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga class, the teacher instructs you through the sequence, explaining how to enter and leave each asana. The breath is counted so all students flow through the sequence simultaneously. The teacher may also perform adjustments and provide vocal cues to aid students in their alignment and their understanding of each asana. Tattvaa Yoga is offering you the best 200-hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh.
What Is Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga?
In Mysore-style Ashtanga classes, there are no spoken instructions. Students self-practice the sequence at the pace of their breath, synchronizing their breath and movement. There is a more significant focus on teachers providing individual guidance and adjustments where necessary. For many practitioners, a deeper understanding of the sequence is developed. In Mysore Style practice, one can build a deep internal awareness due to fewer external stimuli, and there is no need to modify the pace of breath to match the rest of the class.
Ashtanga Yoga Sequence For Beginners?
Ashtanga Vinyasa is suitable for everyone! If you practice with the guidance of a knowledgeable teacher, they will assist you in modifying the sequence to suit your body. The external appearance of the postures is not essential, as the main focus of the practice is internal awareness and breath. With regular practice, your body will strengthen and open, and you will progress further in the physical practice of the sequence.
Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training
At Tattvaa Yogashala – The best Yoga School in Rishikesh, we offer world-class offerings in Ashtanga and other styles of yoga. Our classes are taught by certified, experienced teachers who create a safe environment for each student’s unique practice, teaching from a compassionate place that encourages growth. Our environmentally friendly and beautiful studios are located in Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vinyasa and Ashtanga are both dynamic and challenging styles of yoga that emphasize breath-synchronized movement. While they share some similarities, they have distinct differences in terms of structure, discipline, and creativity. At Tattvaa Yogashala, we offer classes in both styles, led by experienced teachers who can help guide you on your yoga journey. Join us for a transformative and empowering practice that will help you connect your mind, body, and spirit!
