What is Ashtanga Yoga according to Sri K. Pattahbi Jois?

Ashtanga Yoga, as taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, is a dynamic and traditional system of yoga that integrates physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and gaze (drishti) into a powerful practice for both the body and mind. Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, one of the most influential figures in modern yoga, revitalized and popularized this system globally. He emphasized that Ashtanga Yoga is not only a physical practice but a spiritual journey that leads to self-realization and inner peace.

The word Ashtanga comes from two Sanskrit words: “Ashta” meaning eight, and “Anga” meaning limbs. Ashtanga Yoga, therefore, refers to the eight limbs of yoga outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, a classical text on yoga. These eight limbs form the foundation of Ashtanga Yoga, creating a holistic path for personal transformation and spiritual growth.

The Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga

According to Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, the eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga are:

• Yama (Ethical Disciplines): These are moral guidelines that help shape our relationships with others and society. They include non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and celibacy or moderation (brahmacharya).
• Niyama (Personal Observances): These are practices that cultivate self-discipline and inner growth, such as cleanliness (shaucha), contentment (santosha), self-study (svadhyaya), devotion (ishvara pranidhana), and austerity (tapas).
• Asana (Physical Postures): The physical postures in Ashtanga Yoga are designed to strengthen and purify the body. The practice of asanas prepares the body to sit comfortably in meditation and helps release energy blockages, facilitating the flow of prana (life force).
• Pranayama (Breath Control): Pranayama is the practice of regulating the breath. Through controlled breathing, one can enhance the flow of prana in the body, calm the mind, and increase energy levels. In Ashtanga Yoga, breath is synchronized with movement, creating a flow that leads to internal heat and purification.
• Pratyahara (Withdrawal of the Senses): This limb refers to the practice of turning inward, withdrawing attention from external distractions. It is the bridge between the external practices of yoga and the internal ones. By practicing pratyahara, you can increase focus and concentration.
• Dharana (Concentration): Dharana is the practice of single-pointed focus, where the mind is fixed on a specific object, such as the breath or a mantra. This helps improve mental clarity and cultivates a deep sense of presence.
• Dhyana (Meditation): Meditation, or dhyana, involves sustained concentration, allowing the mind to quieten and transcend thoughts. Through dhyana, one can experience a profound sense of stillness and unity with the present moment.
• Samadhi (Union or Enlightenment): The final limb of Ashtanga Yoga is samadhi, the state of blissful absorption and oneness with the universe. It is the ultimate goal of the practice—achieving self-realization and inner peace.

The Ashtanga Vinyasa System: The Physical Practice

In Sri K. Pattabhi Jois’s system, Ashtanga Yoga is taught through a series of dynamic, flowing sequences of asanas known as Vinyasa. Vinyasa refers to the synchronization of breath with movement, where each breath guides the movement from one posture to the next. This creates a flowing, meditative experience, where the body moves in a rhythmic, smooth, and continuous manner.

The primary practice of Ashtanga Yoga consists of six series:

• Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa): The foundational series that focuses on alignment, flexibility, and strength, cleansing and healing the body.
• Intermediate Series (Nadi Shodhana): A series designed to purify the nervous system and increase strength and flexibility.
• Advanced A, B, C, and D Series (Sthira Bhaga): These series are designed to cultivate strength, balance, and focus, preparing the practitioner for deeper spiritual practices.

Ashtanga practitioners begin with the Primary Series and progress to the other series under the guidance of an experienced teacher. The practice is progressive, and the emphasis is on mastery of each posture, breath control, and consistent discipline.

Key Elements in Ashtanga Yoga

• Ujjayi Breath: This controlled breath helps generate internal heat and maintain focus throughout the practice. The breath should be deep, smooth, and audible, like the sound of the ocean.
• Drishti (Gaze): Each asana in Ashtanga Yoga has a specific drishti, or point of focus, which helps bring the mind into concentration and keeps the practice meditative.
• Bandhas (Energy Locks): Ashtanga uses bandhas, or internal locks, such as Mula Bandha (root lock) and Uddiyana Bandha (abdominal lock), to channel energy and build strength within the body.

Ashtanga Yoga: A Path to Transformation

Ashtanga Yoga is a comprehensive system that not only strengthens the body but also nurtures the mind and spirit. According to Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, consistent practice (called abhyasa) leads to purification of the body and mind, eventually resulting in the realization of one’s true nature. He famously said, “Yoga is 99% practice and 1% theory.” This highlights the importance of dedication and perseverance in the journey of yoga.