What Is Ashtanga Yoga And Its Benefits

What is Ashtanga yoga?

The word Ashtanga is comprised of two Sanskrit words, “Ashta” and “Anga.” “Ashta” refers to the number eight, while “Anga” means limb or body part. Therefore, Ashtanga is the union of the eight limbs of yoga, into one complete, holistic system.

The Ashtanga philosophy is to integrate all of the eight limbs of yoga, which include: Yama (moral codes), Niyama (self-discipline), Asana (posture), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (sense withdrawal), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (oneness with the self).

Benefits of Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga yoga poses are several health benefits including:

● It calms your mind, improves your concentration and helps you relax. This is mainly because of the rhythmic breathing patterns.

● It helps to improve your overall wellness by improving your posture, help you breathe better and also improve your concentration skills. It also helps to better your self-esteem.

● It makes your muscles strong and improves the strength of your leg and core muscles.

● It helps you practice mindful eating which helps you stay fit and healthy in the most natural and safe way.

● It helps in pain management.

While this yoga form has health benefits, consult your doctor before starting especially if you have had an injury or a surgery in the past.

Basic Ashtanga Yoga Poses

When you practise yoga ashtanga, you cannot just perform any yoga pose of your choice. You need to follow the same set given to you for the same number of counts each day Here are five basic Ashtanga yoga poses you can incorporate in your daily routine:

1) Forward Bend

The standing forward bend is a gentle, calming pose that nourishes the brain and reduces stress. This pose also stimulates the liver and kidneys, stretches the hamstrings and calves, and opens the hips.

2) Extended Triangle

The extended triangle pose strengthens the core muscles, increasing balance and stability. This pose can increase flexibility in the spine and back.

3) Extended Side Angle

The extended side angle pose, a standing pose that improves balance and is energizing, can help counteract the effects of prolonged sitting. It can also improve posture, and boost confidence.

4) Wide Legged Forward Fold

The wide-angled forward bend lengthens the hamstrings and stretches the back, thighs, and calves. It can help you feel more relaxed.

5) Intense Side Stretch

The side stretch pose increases flexibility in the hamstrings and can help open up the hips and spine. A great prep for runners, this pose helps stretch out tight calves and hamstrings before or after a race.

Conclusion

The key is to have focus and perseverance. Practicing the aforementioned basic Ashtanga yoga exercises can help you strengthen and tone your body while helping you remain mentally centered. That should help improve your workout and health, and boost your well-being.

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Source: Insider, Cult Fit, Sportskeeda

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on January 03, 2023