mario

...The term Ashtanga historically refers to the 'eight limbs' of yoga, a system derived from the writings of the mystic patanjali. The yoga known in the West as Ashtanga, however, refers to something else - and that is the active, flowing style of yoga popularized by Pattabhi Jois. Jois' yoga is often referred to as astanga vinyasa yoga now to differentiate it from this historical term.

All styles of yoga have been influenced by Patanjali's works. The principles he describes underpin the philosophies of the various branches, and in this, ashtanga vinyasa yoga is no different. These eight limbs are described as: abstinences (Yama), observances (Niyama), postures (Asana), breath control (Pranayama), sense withdrawal (Pratyahara), concentration (Dharana), meditation (Dhyana), and contemplation (Samadhi).

Breathing correctly is an important part of practicing yoga, and Vinyasa refers to movement that is synchronized with the breath. Astanga vinyasa yoga uses a particular style of breathing called ujjayi ...more

Staying Fit with Yoga exercises

...n doing yoga, youll need to be consistent in practicing the yoga exercises so that it will soon take effect and you will notice little by little improvements on your body.

After doing the yoga exercises, youll need to relax in order for the effect of the postures take place. In this manner, the body will accumulate the effects.

Before doing the yoga exercises, you should first lay in a relaxed posture so you can focus well and not be distracted by outside forces. You will not feel pain or discomfort too.

Yoga exercises can be done at any time of the day as long as you are free. Although it chooses no time, still, the best time to practice it is in the morning. Before eating your breakfast, the mind is on its state of calmness and free from distractions. Thi...more

Confessions of a Yoga Teacher

...The following are questions that Yoga teachers still need to answer, despite overwhelming evidence that Yoga is the mother of all health maintenance systems. Mainstream thought is finally catching up, with the progress Yoga is making, but it has taken 5,000 years for us to get this far.

Seriously, How Can Yoga Make You lose Weight?

Finally, some of the Yoga and Weight Loss studies have come in, and even, a little bit of Yoga is much better, than none, for weight control, but there are a number of reasons why. Yoga is a lifestyle change that includes a safe diet; exercise, adjusting posture, breathing, and a whole lot more. Most of the Yoga practitioners, I k...more

The Philosophy of Yoga and How It Applies to Modern Society

...provide spiritual practises, which enable a seeker to accelerate his journey of self-discovery. While religion is often concerned with outer forms and outer rituals, yoga is concerned with individual development and the practical application of spiritual ideas. Yoga encompasses all religions but at the same time goes beyond them.

The teachings of Yoga originated many thousands of years ago when the Vedic Seers first started to write down their spiritual discoveries and spiritual realizations. Since the Vedic times the teachings of yoga have been refined and updated through a long succession of spiritual Masters and teachers. Although the teachings of yoga have been revised; the essential message of yoga has remained the same; Atmanam viddhi Know Thyself. Although ...more