Surya Namaskar Reference

Ashtanga yoga is a dynamic and physically challenging practice that requires strength, flexibility, and balance. But did you know that all of these elements depend on the health of your spine? In this article, we will explore the functions of the spine and the attributes of a healthy spine, and how they relate to your Ashtanga yoga practice. The Functions of the Spine The spine is a complex structure that serves many important functions in the body. It houses the spinal cord, which provides communication between the brain and the rest of the nervous system. It also transmits loads between the upper body and the lower body, and creates attachment points for muscles and bones, allowing for flexible movement in a range of directions. Finally,…

Ashtanga yoga is a dynamic and challenging practice that demands strength, flexibility and endurance. As Ashtanga practitioners, we are often obsessed with achieving the perfect posture, but sometimes we forget the importance of flexibility and the role it plays in our practice. In this article, we will delve into the complex world of anatomy and physiology, and explore the hidden secrets of flexibility and stretching in Ashtanga yoga. We will cover what limits flexibility, the benefits of stretching, and the different types of stretching techniques that can be used to improve flexibility. What is Flexibility and What Limits It? Flexibility refers to the ability to move (without pain or restriction) through a joint’s range of motion. It is specific to a particular joint or set…

Introduction: As Ashtanga yogis, we are familiar with the physical practice of yoga. We flow through the series, sweat, and challenge ourselves to new postures. But have you ever considered that there may be more to us than just our physical bodies? In this article, we will explore the koshas, the “layers” or “sheaths” that make up our being and how understanding them can deepen our practice and connection to ourselves. What are the Koshas? The koshas are a model described in the Vedic text, the Taittiriya Upanishad. There are five koshas, each representing a different aspect of our being. They are: These layers are not separate entities, but rather interrelated and interconnected parts of our whole being. Understanding and working with them can help…