Ashtanga Yoga : The Science of Breath, Movement and Meditation
Are you a dedicated yoga practitioner seeking to deepen your practice and share its profound benefits with others? Then, you must consider enrolling in an Ashtanga Yoga certification training course. This type of yoga is not just a physical exercise; it’s a scientific exploration of the mind-body connection that has been perfected over centuries.
In this article, we will uncover the profound scientific principles that underlie Ashtanga Yoga and understand how it can elevate your practice and well-being.
The Science of Breath – Pranayama
In Ashtanga yoga, the breath is the foundational element. Pranayama, the science of breath control, forms the cornerstone of this practice. It involves specific techniques that go beyond ordinary breathing. Ujjayi Pranayama, the most commonly used technique, involves making a soft hissing sound akin to the ocean’s waves.
Breath control has a profound impact on the body and mind. It synchronizes movement with respiration, creating a deep connection between the physical and mental aspects of practice. This focused breathing triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety. The result is an overall sense of calm, facilitating the mental clarity necessary for meditation and deeper self-awareness.
The Science of Movement – Asanas
Ashtanga yoga is known for its structured sequence of dynamic postures, or asanas. These postures are meticulously designed to challenge and strengthen the body. Beyond the physicality, there’s a science behind the sequences, where each posture prepares the body for the next. And the precision in alignment demands complete concentration, turning the asanas into a moving meditation.
The benefits of this systematic approach are manifold. Asanas improve physical flexibility and strength, making the body more resilient and less susceptible to injury. The precision in alignment demands complete concentration, effectively turning the postures into a moving meditation. The mind becomes an active participant in the practice, fostering heightened body awareness and mindfulness.
The Science of Meditation – Dhyana
Finally, the practice of Dhyana, or meditation, is the culmination of Ashtanga yoga. It’s not about emptying the mind but achieving a state of mental clarity and heightened awareness. Meditation is the gateway to self-discovery and a deeper understanding of the mind’s workings, bringing some notable benefits to your spiritual and physical health:
Regular meditation is associated with enhanced mental clarity, a reduction in mental clutter, and an increased ability to make conscious choices. Moreover, it’s linked to stress reduction and emotional balance. Practitioners of Ashtanga yoga find that the benefits of meditation extend beyond the mat, improving decision-making and emotional intelligence in their daily lives.
Connect With Source of Yoga!
Now that you understand how Ashtanga Yoga works, it’s time to take your practitioner skills to the next level. Join our Ashtanga certification training that’s available in 100-hour, 200-hour, and 500-hour sets. You can also buy Caroline Klebl’s book on Ashtanga Yoga practices and poses as well as her instructional primary series yoga video to learn how to practice asanas on your own time.
Visit the upcoming teaching schedule Source of Yoga to get started!