Ashtanga yoga is widely considered the most challenging yogic practice one can adopt. Certainly not for those faint of heart.
The physical exertion alongside synchronized breathing evokes a deep sense of calm and spirituality, unlike any other discipline.
More than your average fitness routine, it is a way of life.
That’s why in this post, we’ll be exploring 5 reasons to try Ashtanga yoga today.
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What is Ashtanga Yoga?
Nicknamed the “8 limbs of yoga”, Ashtanga is a South Indian style of yoga derived from the ancient teachings of the sage Patanjali.
Later introduced to the Western world by the yogi, Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Ashtanga is taught in a set of stages known as series.
Beginning traditionally with the Primary series, these levels tend to increase in difficulty as practitioners progress toward the next one.
This brand of yoga is famous for its demanding postures, harmonic breathing, and sacred mantras.
Ashtanga yoga calls for dedication, discipline, and consistency, making it nothing short of revolutionary for those fully ready to commit themselves.
Benefits of Ashtanga Yoga
The benefits of Ashtanga yoga are so vast that it would take a much longer post to list them all.
Fortunately, we’ll only discuss 5 of these today, though they are among the most amazing reasons to take up this revolutionary practice.
Ashtanga Helps With Weight Management
Practitioners may uncover an assortment of advantages to adopting Ashtanga yoga with weight management being one of them.
Although weight management involves many other factors such as good nutrition, Ashtanga does help by burning calories and building muscle.
This, in turn, speeds up metabolism aiding in weight loss.
Ashtanga also works to stimulate the digestive system and improve the circulation of internal organs.
With continued practice, people may start noticing a decrease in digestive issues like bloating or constipation.
Ashtanga Helps Build Physical Strength
Ashtanga yoga is excellent for building physical strength. There are many holding postures within the practice that require a decent amount of full-body strength.
Particularly from the arms, core, and legs making this a form of resistance training.
Also, yogis can spend anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours in continuous movement depending on the series.
If done consistently enough, the muscles in the body will eventually begin to tone thus enhancing overall fitness.
Ashtanga Helps Reduce Injury
Ashtanga yoga is ideal for reducing injuries due to a couple of reasons.
Since it strengthens the body, the muscles are better able to stabilize and support the joints which can help prevent injuries.
The practice also contributes to the fortification of connective tissue, such as tendons and ligaments, thereby increasing their resistance against sprains and strains.
This is especially significant for the elderly who are among the most vulnerable when it comes to injuries.
Ashtanga Helps With Pain
For some, Ashtanga yoga may be an effective method for managing and even relieving pain altogether.
In fact, in 2017, researchers discovered that yoga may be as efficient at reducing chronic lower back pain as physical therapy.
The combination of stretching and strengthening movements can enhance not only muscular strength but flexibility as well.
The one-two punch helps alleviate musculoskeletal pain. This includes back pain, neck pain, and other types of joint discomfort.
Ashtanga also emphasizes mindfulness and employs breathing exercises that reduce tension throughout the body.
This may lead to decreased headaches and muscle soreness since tension is usually a contributing factor.
Ashtanga Helps With Mental Clarity
In the Ashtanga yoga practice, the body moves through and holds a litany of different yoga postures for well over an hour. Many of which can feel intensely difficult and unrelenting.
Under these conditions, even the most seasoned yogis may find their resolve tested.
However, with regular practice, Ashtanga can actually boost mental clarity and focus.
It does this by teaching practitioners to always be aware of the breath and the present moment. Building a mental skillset that people can often take with them off the mat.
Ashtanga Yoga FAQ
Is Ashtanga Yoga the hardest yoga?
Yes, Ashtanga yoga is by far considered the hardest style of yoga.
Can beginners do Ashtanga Yoga?
Absolutely! Ashtanga yoga may look intimidating however many of the poses can be modified to suit the practitioner’s needs. Also, a number of beginners start journeys into this practice with the Half-Primary rather than jumping straight into the Primary series. It’s a bit easier and far less intimidating than its counterpart.
Why is Astanga Yoga called the “8 limbs of yoga”?
Ashtanga gets its name from the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. It literally means “eight limbs”. In the sutras, Patanjali outlines the eight paths or steps of yoga which serve as a guide for how to live a more meaningful and purpose-driven life. This code of conduct is meant to provide moral, ethical, and spiritual guidance. Here are the “eight limbs” below:
Yama (Restraints)
Niyama (Observances)
Asanas (Postures)
Pranayama (Breath Control)
Pratyahara (Withdrawal of the Senses)
Dharana (Concentration)
Dhyana (Meditation)
Samadhi (Union or Enlightenment)
Ashtanga Yoga Tips
You don’t need much to get started with Ashtanga. With that said, here are some super simple tips to help newbies get acclimated to the practice.
Begin where you are
When first starting out, it’s easy to get frustrated by all the athletic and flexible poses. However, there is no need to do anything perfectly or like anyone else.
The beauty of Ashtanga is that it can be practiced alone where the practitioner can set their own pace at their own fitness level.
You could also use tools like yoga blocks to modify many of the postures.
Do Your Savasana
Savasana is a resting posture frequently taken part at the end of the practice.
Here, the yogi is meant to find deep relaxation in the pose while at the same time remaining fully conscious.
It is the asana that brings the whole practice together and participation is often strongly encouraged by the yoga instructor.
Clean Your Mat
After savasana, it’s a pretty good idea to clean the yoga mat.
During the practice, the mat collects all kinds of dirt, sweat, dust, and grim.
Cleaning the mat keeps the bacteria, germs, and potential allergens from spreading, which may lead to health issues.
Typically, a couple of drops of dish soap and warm water are enough to do the trick.
Alternatively, it’s probably an even better idea to spring for a cork yoga mat because they are antimicrobial and hypoallergenic. So, cleaning isn’t usually necessary.
Try Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga yoga is as challenging as they come but few practices around the world are as rewarding for the mind, body, and soul.
It doesn’t take much to get started and the best part about Ashtanga is that it can be learned at your own pace. With all the benefits associated with this style of yoga, why not give it a try?
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