The Power of Mudras: How Hand Gestures Can Enhance Your Ashtanga Yoga Practice

Introduction: As an Ashtanga yoga practitioner, you are likely familiar with the physical postures (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayama) that form the foundation of your practice. But you may not know about the powerful tool of mudras, or hand gestures, which can enhance your practice by influencing the flow of energy in your body and mind. In this article, we will explore the definition of mudras, their importance in Hatha Yoga, and how they can enhance your Ashtanga yoga practice. What are Mudras? Mudras are symbolic hand positions and body postures used in yoga and meditation that influence the flow of energy in the body and mind. The term “mudra” comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “seal,” “mark,” “gesture,” or “symbol.” In non-traditional usage, the…

The Secret Life of Prana: A Beginner’s Guide to Energy in Yoga

Are you an Ashtanga yoga practitioner looking to deepen your knowledge of energy in yoga? Look no further! In this post, we’ll cover the basics of prana, prana vayus, nadis, and how they relate to Hatha yoga. Let’s get started! What is Prana? Prana is the life force energy that flows within us. Think of it as the gas that fuels your car. We extract prana from various sources, including food, light, and love. According to yoga teacher Gregor Maehle, although there is only one prana, it is in different locations, flows in different nadis, and has different functions. These various types of prana are called by different names.  Prana Vayus Prana vayus are the movements or functions of prana. There are five prana vayus,…

Layers of Being: Understanding the Koshas for Ashtanga Yoga Practitioners

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…

The Chakras: Spinning Wheels of Life Force Energy

Attention all Ashtanga yogis! It’s time to dive into the world of chakras. Don’t know what they are? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’re going to introduce you to the spinning wheels of life force energy that are believed to be found in the subtle body. Get ready to become familiar with the philosophy, function, and symbolism of the chakras. Let’s begin! What are Chakras? Chakras, derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “wheel,” are spinning centers of life force energy found in the subtle body. They are believed to be a “spinning sphere of bioenergetic activity emanating from the major nerve ganglia branching from the spinal column,” according to Anodea Judith in her book, Eastern Body, Western Mind. While some…

Breathe in, Breathe out: Understanding Pranayama in Ashtanga Yoga

Introduction: Breathing is an integral part of our lives, but we often take it for granted. In Ashtanga yoga, we focus on the breath through the practice of pranayama. Pranayama is the fourth limb of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, and it’s all about breath practices. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what pranayama is, its purpose, and how it can enhance your Ashtanga yoga practice. What is Pranayama? Pranayama is a Sanskrit word that means “life force extension,” and it refers to breath practices designed to enhance one’s life force energy or prana. Pranayama is presented as the fourth limb in the Eight Limbs of Yoga, and it’s all about controlling your breath to control your prana. By regulating the…