Ashtanga
Ashtanga yoga is much more than a physical discipline; it is a philosophy of living that awakens vitality in both body and mind. Through dedicated and consistent practice, we rediscover our strength and nourish our health — physical, psychological, and spiritual. Through the refinement of our awareness, layer by layer, we can remember and connect to the happy nature of our being.
The word astanga — pronounced “ash-tan-ga” — means “eight limbs,” referring to the eightfold path described by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutra. These eight interconnected branches are: Yama (abstinences), Niyama (observances), Asana (postures), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (contemplation). Each limb supports the others. Through the steady cultivation of posture and breath, we lay the foundations for our inner stillness. If we practice with the right attitude over time, the deeper, inward dimensions of yoga arise naturally and without force into our lives.
In the asthanga system there are three groups of sequences, each unfolding progressively. The Primary Series, Yoga Chikitsa, detoxifies and aligns the body. The Intermediate Series, Nadi Shodhana, purifies the nervous system and clears the energetic channels. The Advanced Series — A, B, C, and D — known as Sthira Bhaga, integrate strength, grace, humility, and deep flexibility.
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The order of the practice is intentional and precise. Each posture prepares the body and mind for the next, cultivating balance, resilience, and sensitivity. A series is to be patiently embodied before moving forward, allowing our understanding to deepen through experience rather than ambition.
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At the heart of the practice is vinyasa — breath-synchronised movement. Breath becomes the thread that links one posture to the next in a precise and flowing sequence. Through the combined practices of Ujjayi pranayama (breath), dristi (focused gaze) and the internal bandhas (energetic locks), the body generates a purifying inner heat. This heat cleanses muscles, organs, and the nervous system, releasing tension and toxins while nourishing the body from within. Guided by breath, movement becomes fluid, grounded, and steady, and the body grows both light and strong.
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The continuity of breath — deep, even, and conscious — is core to the practice. When breath guides action, and action supports posture, movement becomes calm, precise, and graceful.
Establishing a regular Ashtanga yoga practice requires some level of discipline, effort, and trust. The demanding dimension of the practice is also what allows its transformative fire. It awakens and circulates vital energy (prana) throughout the body, strengthening and purifying the nervous system while bringing clarity and steadiness to the mind.
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At Agora, our wish is to allow everyone to access this powerful tool for supporting our lives - whether you are a complete beginner or an established practitioner, whether you wish to dedicate one hour a week or come everyday. In the approach we have to sharing Ashtanga, there is not a single way to practice only: all ages, body types, injuries, and physical limitations are welcome, and will be treated with kindness and acceptance.
