About Ashtanga Yoga

A system of hatha yoga taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois that synchronizes the mind, body and spirit with the breath. Through a series of physical postures or asanas, the practitioner generates a purifying sweat that detoxifies the muscles, joints and internal organs.

The asanas also develop strength, internally and externally. Emphasis is placed on core strength through the cultivation of bandahas, or energy locks in the body.

Deep ujjayi breathing is absolutely a fundamental part of the physical practice because it stimulates the adrenal glands in a very particular manner to produce the profuse sweat that ashtanga is known for. Each posture heals a specific area of the physical and energetic body. The ashtanga series is a specifically designed set of poses that works on multiple layers in the yogi‚s body. The specificity of the poses targets a very deep level of consciousness over time.

The practice is cumulative, meaning that the true benefits are only realized after some time of committed practice.

After the initial soreness wears away, a new found strength and flexibility will fill both the practitioner's life inside and outside the yoga
practice. As the body's flexibility increases, a new sense of openness and freedom is gained.

Deep, ujjayi breathing relaxes the mind and prepares the practitioner for the awakening of higher levels of consciousness. So, while the asanas are a major component of Ashtanga Yoga, they are only a part of what makes this type of yoga so transformative.

The internal, energetic practice of mind-body awareness is the key to the meditative state that is the real yoga practice. Through regular yoga practice, the energy or prana in every human soul is rejuvenated.

At The Yoga Loft, we stress the union of material and spiritual worlds through both the physical and the energetic practice.

A light body, strong spirit and calm mind are the benefits of long term practice.