Astanga Vinyasa Yoga

Astanga Vinyasa is one branch of the Hatha yoga tree. Astanga means ‘eight limbs’ and Vinyasa refers to the connection of movement with the breath. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras define the eight limbs of yoga as:

Yama – moral and ethical disciplines Niyama – self discipline Asana – posture Pranayama – control of prana using the breath Pratyahara – withdrawal of the senses Dharana – concentration Dhyana – meditation Samadhi – total consciousness or enlightenment.

Astanga Vinyasa yoga asanas are performed in a set sequence, each one flowing into the next by following the wave of the breath. Ginny teaches the Primary Series, the first of six such sequences. The Primary Series is often referred to as yoga chikitsa, meaning yoga therapy, due to its cleansing and calming effect on the mind, body and senses.
The breath is the foundation of the practice and using deep ujjayi breathing combined with the bandhas and asanas, the body is heated internally encouraging flexibility and allowing detoxification and healing to take place. Regular practice creates a strong, healthy and light body.

By focusing the attention on the drishtis, external distractions are eliminated and mental chatter gradually ceases, rendering the mind calm and steady. The entire practice eventually develops a meditative quality under the guidance of the breath.

Click here for Astanga Yoga Classes in Brighton and Hove