Hatha Yoga

The physical practice of Yoga, which became popular in our western culture is based on Hatha Yoga – one of the four yogic paths described in the ancient texts. Hatha Yoga is a multi- dimensional bodily practice that emerged in a cultural continuum in India, in which the body is perceived as a connection to the ultimate Consciousness and becomes a gate to spiritual awakening. The purpose of Hatha yoga is to guide practitioners into a direct experience of the divinity that resides within their bodies. This happens through a practice of postures (Asanas), breathing (Pranayama) and purification (Kriyas) exercises and leads to a transformation of the whole body with all its physical and non-physical layers (mental -, emotional -, energy -, and spiritual body).

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Ashtanga Yoga 

The Ashtanga Yoga method is a practice deeply rooted in a path of Hatha Yoga. In this tradition, asanas are systematized in intelligent sequences, which guide practitioners from the material to the spiritual – moving and breathing into deeper levels of strength, flexibility, subtlety, and consciousness. 

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The basis of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga in the tradition of Sri Pattabhi Jois is called the Tristana method: practice of correct breathing (Ujjayi Pranayama), postures (Asana), and gazing points (Dristi). This strong and dynamic practice is rooted in the Vinyasa principle – synchronization of postures and breathing in a flowing sequence, which brings the element of movement into the practice of yoga asanas. This emerges in a dynamic and harmonic flow that connects movement and breath into a meditation in motion. 

The practice of Ashtanga Vinyasa is a ritual designed to erect a temple within the inner space of the body, and on this holy site we can experience the magic of personal transformation. Breath, movement, and gaze are building blocks of the sacred site within the body.