Yoga

Ashtanga yoga, the yoga of the eight limbs, is founded on the Yoga Sutra of Patanjali.
It is a method of personal growth based on the eightfold path and characterized by great dynamism.
Its current form was developed by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois of Mysore, India, who passed away in 2009, to our regret.
This method of teaching and practice, in honor of its origin, is called Mysore Style.
In this style the Asanas are introduced gradually according to the mental and physical ability of the practitioner. The difficulty and duration of the practice grows with time, according to the practitioner’s growing skill.
The breath is at the heart of the practice. It is synchronized with the direction of the gaze (drishti) and the Asanas.
Any level of practice is conducive to a state of profound well-being and has unmistakable positive effects on the general health, on several levels, physical, emotional and mental.

The practice develops in a number of series.
The First Series (Yoga Chikitsa) is intended to remove the toxins from the body and purify it, introducing strength, flexibility and alignment.
The Second Series (Nadi Shodana) has a more profound effect on the purification process of the nervous system.
The Third to the Sixth Series (Sthira Bhaga) are intended to develop mental and physical strength, flexibility and stability.

The great dynamism of the method that seems to contradict the more reflective aspect is in fact aimed at making us perceive that in the constant changes that occur in life, something remains constant in us: our ability to listen.

The eight limbs
Yama = Appropriate relationship with the outer world
Niyama = Appropriate relationship with the inner world
Asana = Appropriate relationship with the body
Pranayama = Appropriate relationship with the vital energy
Pratyahara = Withdrawal of the senses
Dharana = Concentration
Dhyana = Meditation
Samadhi = Perfect meditation, enlightenment