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What is the history of Ashtanga Yoga?

Elsie Poulney

As a user of social media, I can tell you that the history of Ashtanga Yoga is a fascinating one. It all started with the ancient Indian sage Patanjali, who is considered the father of yoga. Patanjali wrote the Yoga Sutras, a collection of 196 aphorisms that provide guidance on how to practice yoga and attain spiritual liberation.

Ashtanga Yoga, which means "eight-limbed yoga," is based on Patanjali's teachings and was developed by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in the early 20th century. Jois was a student of the great Indian yoga master T. Krishnamacharya, who taught him the traditional Ashtanga Yoga method. Jois then went on to establish the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India, where he taught the method to students from all over the world.

Over the years, Ashtanga Yoga has become one of the most popular styles of yoga in the Western world. In fact, according to a study conducted by the Yoga Alliance and Yoga Journal, Ashtanga Yoga is the fifth most practiced style of yoga in the United States, after Hatha, Vinyasa, Iyengar, and Bikram Yoga.

One of the reasons for Ashtanga Yoga's popularity is its rigorous and disciplined approach to yoga practice. The practice involves a set sequence of postures (asanas) that are performed in a specific order, with a focus on synchronizing the breath with movement. This creates a dynamic and flowing practice that is both physically challenging and mentally stimulating.

Another reason for the popularity of Ashtanga Yoga is its emphasis on the spiritual aspect of yoga practice. The eight limbs of yoga, which include ethical principles, meditation, and self-reflection, are integrated into the practice, making it a holistic system for personal growth and transformation.

Despite its popularity, Ashtanga Yoga has also been criticized for its intensity and its potential for causing injury. Some practitioners have reported experiencing physical pain or injury as a result of the practice, and some have accused Jois of promoting a cult-like atmosphere at his institute.

Overall, however, Ashtanga Yoga continues to be a popular and influential style of yoga, with a rich history and a dedicated following of practitioners worldwide. Its emphasis on discipline, tradition, and spiritual growth make it a unique and powerful practice that has stood the test of time.