By Lancelot 
The Roots of Ashtanga Yoga: A Journey Through Tradition
Ashtanga Yoga is a dynamic and structured style of yoga that has garnered immense popularity in the West, particularly since the late 20th century. To truly understand Ashtanga, one must delve into its historical roots and the philosophical underpinnings that shaped its development.
Historical Background
Ashtanga Yoga, as we know it today, can be traced back to the teachings of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, who popularized the practice in the mid-20th century. However, the origins of Ashtanga Yoga extend far beyond Jois’s contributions, reaching into ancient Indian texts and traditions. The foundational principles of Ashtanga can be linked to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, composed around 400 CE. This classic text outlines the eight limbs of yoga, referred to as Ashtanga, which translates to “eight limbs” in Sanskrit.
The eight limbs include:
- Yama: Ethical standards and moral values.
- Niyama: Observances and personal disciplines.
- Asana: The physical postures commonly associated with yoga.
- Pranayama: Breath control and regulation.
- Pratyahara: Withdrawal of the senses.
- Dharana: Focus or concentration.
- Dhyana: Meditation or contemplation.
- Samadhi: A state of bliss or enlightenment.
Each limb interconnects to serve the practitioner’s pursuit of spiritual awakening and self-realization.
Patanjali and the Yoga Sutras
Patanjali, often referred to as the father of yoga, contributed to the systematization of yoga philosophy, emphasizing mental discipline and ethical constraints. The Yoga Sutras laid the groundwork for understanding the interplay between mind, body, and spirit. Through these precepts, Ashtanga Yoga has influenced many contemporary styles, promoting a holistic approach that encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
The Influence of the Hatha Yoga Tradition
Prior to the formal establishment of Ashtanga Yoga, the Hatha Yoga tradition emerged as a prominent system of practices aimed at preparing the body for the demands of meditation. Hatha Yoga emphasizes the physical aspects of yoga, including posture (asana) and breath control (pranayama). It served as a predecessor to Ashtanga, shaping its physical discipline and emphasizing the importance of balancing mind and body.
Texts such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Gheranda Samhita provide valuable insights into the historical practices of Hatha Yoga. These texts detail the various asanas, mudras (hand gestures), and bandhas (body locks) that are foundational to Ashtanga Yoga today.
Sri K. Pattabhi Jois and Modern Ashtanga
The modern revival of Ashtanga Yoga can be attributed significantly to the pioneering work of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. Born in 1915 in Karnataka, India, Jois began practicing yoga at a young age under the tutelage of his teacher, T. Krishnamacharya. The teachings of Krishnamacharya emphasized a personalized approach to yoga that combined rigorous physical discipline with breath and alignment.
In 1948, Jois established the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, where he began teaching his system of yoga based on the traditional methodologies he learned from Krishnamacharya. Jois’s approach to Ashtanga involved a set series of postures linked by breath, or vinyasa, resulting in a flowing, dynamic practice. This emphasis on breath and movement became the hallmark of Ashtanga Yoga, distinguishing it from other forms of yoga.
The Tristhana Method
One of the key concepts introduced by Jois is the Tristhana method, which encompasses three essential elements of practice: posture (asana), breath (ujjayi pranayama), and gaze (drishti). By coordinating these aspects, practitioners can cultivate a deeper sense of awareness and concentration. This methodological approach helps in grounding the mind, enhancing the meditative aspect of practice.
The four primary series of Ashtanga Yoga—Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa), Intermediate Series (Nadi Shodhana), Advanced A Series (Sthira Bhaga), and Advanced B Series—each have unique purposes and benefits, guiding practitioners toward greater strength, flexibility, and spiritual growth.
Philosophical Influences
Ashtanga Yoga is deeply rooted in the philosophical foundations of Hinduism and Buddhism. The concept of karma, the law of cause and effect, reinforces the importance of intention and mindfulness in practice. Additionally, the idea of dharma, or duty, emerges in the teachings of Ashtanga, encouraging practitioners to pursue their yoga practice with devotion and responsibility.
The emphasis on meditation, particularly in the later stages of Ashtanga practice, draws from Buddhist principles. The cultivation of mindfulness and the development of concentration through dharana and dhyana can be seen as intersections of these ancient philosophies.
Ashtanga Yoga in the Global Context
Ashtanga Yoga has transcended its Indian origins, becoming a significant aspect of the global yoga movement. After Jois’s first visit to the United States in the 1970s, the popularity of Ashtanga surged, with numerous practitioners, including notable figures like Madonna and Sting, advocating for its benefits. The establishment of various Ashtanga studios around the world has allowed for an evolution of the practice while maintaining its traditional roots.
Key figures in the dissemination of Ashtanga Yoga, such as Richard Freeman, Sharath Jois (Pattabhi Jois’s grandson), and other teachers, have contributed to the spread and adaptation of the practice in different cultural contexts. They embody the essence of Ashtanga, emphasizing the need for a personal connection to the practice while retaining its foundational principles.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite its popularity, Ashtanga Yoga has faced scrutiny over issues related to physical strain and injury. The vigorous nature of the practice can pose challenges for some practitioners, emphasizing the need for mindfulness and attention to one’s limitations. Moreover, there has been debate regarding the standardization of practices in an increasingly commercial landscape, raising questions about authenticity and the preservation of tradition.
Conclusion
The journey through the roots of Ashtanga Yoga illustrates the intricate blend of history, philosophy, and practice. From ancient texts to modern interpretations, Ashtanga continues to be a vital force in the pursuit of spiritual development and physical wellness. By understanding its rich heritage, practitioners can deepen their connection to this transformative practice, fostering a healthier and more mindful existence in the process.