What is Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga translates to 8 limbs. It is made up of 8 different elements, but our main focus here is the asanas (postures). Asanas are the physical practice of yoga; this practice is made up of fixed asanas that are done in a particular order. The flow is designed to target energy in different areas of the body through the nadis (energy channels) A.K.A. chakras, with the goal being to build harmony between the body and the breath.
Of the many different types of yoga, Ashtanga identifies as a dynamic practice. With the use of the breath the practitioner moves through the asanas in a flow like state, also known as vinyasa. The breath is designed to lead and create ease of movement into challenging body positions.
Speaking of breath, the standard pranayama or breath used for Ashtanga is the Ujjayi Breath. This translates to victorious or ocean, because it sounds like the ocean and heats the body while cooling the mind. This combination is intended to make the practitioner feel victorious.
(See the diagram below with some of the Primary Series, the Seated and Finishing Sequence are not shown.)
Sun Salutations A & B
The sun salutations are just as they sound, a salute to the sun. You are meant to face the direction of the sun. The asanas within these flows are meant to heat the body and prepare you for the entire series.
Standing Asanas
Intended to activate the legs muscles with stretching, strengthening and balance. There are modifications for all the poses depending on your level of skill and flexibility.
Every posture should be practiced with awareness to avoid injury.