11/03/2025
Ashtanga Primary Series, also known as "Yoga Chikitsa" or Yoga Therapy, is a dynamic and rigorous practice designed to detoxify and align the body while building strength and flexibility. In an Ashtanga Primary Series class, practitioners experience a structured sequence of postures, each linked with breath (ujjayi pranayama) and focusing on drishti (gaze) to cultivate concentration and mindfulness.
# # # Class Structure:
1. **Opening Invocation:** The class typically starts with a brief chant to set intentions and create a sacred space.
2. **Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskara):** The class usually begins with a few rounds of Sun Salutations A and B, warming up the body and preparing the limbs for the postures to come.
3. **Standing Postures:** As practitioners move into the standing sequence, each pose is designed to enhance balance, strength, and flexibility. Poses like Trikonasana (Triangle Pose) and Warrior II are commonly included.
4. **Seated Postures:** Transitioning to the floor, practitioners dive into a series of seated poses aimed at deepening stretches and opening the hips, involving poses such as Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend) and Bharadvajasana (Bharadvaja's Twist).
5. **Backbends:** The class progresses to backbends, including Urdhva Dhanurasana (Upward Bow Pose) and Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose), promoting spinal flexibility and heart-opening.
6. **Inversions:** As practitioners advance, they may incorporate inversions, such as Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) and Halasana (Plow Pose), which encourage circulation and balance.
7. **Final Relaxation:** The class concludes with Savasana (Co**se Pose), allowing the body to absorb the benefits of the practice, followed by a closing chant.
# # # Key Features:
- **Breath and Movement:** The integration of breath with movement is vital in Ashtanga, promoting a meditative quality and increasing physical awareness.
- **Self-Paced Adjustments:** Though each class follows the same sequence, practitioners can modify poses based on their experience and comfort levels, ensuring an inclusive environment.
- **Community and Tradition:** Ashtanga classes often build a sense of community, encouraging mutua
