Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga vinyasa is a hatha yoga practice based on the Yoga Korunta and oral teachings transmitted to Pattahbi Jois from the great yoga master Krishnamacharya whose lineage can be traced back to the ninth century.
An Ashtanga class starts with the sun salutation, a cardiovascular exercise which involves a very dynamic series of forward and backward bending movements:
This exercise heats up the body and awakens vital energy. One then practices a sequence of yoga postures with an emphasis on three elements:
- a contraction of the pelvic floor muscles to lock in and concentrate the vital energy
- a sustained, powerful breathing technique
- a specific point of visual focus during the posture
Each posture is held for a certain number of breaths before repeating a portion of the sun salutation to maintain the dynamic flow of vital energy.
Due to the fiery nature of this practice, one tends to feel completely purified and energized throughout every cell of the body and also the mind.
"I feel much better and I don't remember when was the last time I slept so well. It is tough, but it is worth it!" - T.J.
After the sequence of yoga postures, one sits to practice the control of the vital energy through various breathing techniques. One calms down and focuses on the inflow, retention, and outflow of the breath and its consequent subtle influence on the movement of the vital energy within.
Finally, one lies down and falls into a very deep relaxation since there is nothing left than to let go of all remaining tensions and surrender, which in turn induces a state of vitality and joy.
"I want to thank you for your yoga classes that give me lots of energy and joie de vivre." - M.B.
In addition to the core Ashtanga Yoga course, we offer an extended version with a more advanced practice of yoga postures, breathing exercises and meditation called Ashtanga Intensive.
Difference between the main methods taught at La Source
Both the Ashtanga and Sivananda methods taught at the center are suitable for complete beginners to yoga. The difference between them is that the Ashtanga method is an invigorating approach that purifies, energizes and vitalises while the Sivananda method is a soothing approach that brings inner tranquility and centeredness.
For more detailed information on Ashtanga Yoga, read here.
Schedule for Ashtanga Yoga
| Day | Info | Time | Location | Teacher | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Details | City: Louvigny | Denise | WL | |
| Tuesday | Details | City: Marie-Thérèse | Denise | WL | |
| Tuesday | Details | City: Marie-Thérèse | Marta | WL | |
| Wednesday | Details | City: Marie-Thérèse | Denise | R | |
| Friday | Details | City: Louvigny | Denise | R |
Upcoming events for Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga and Chandra Krama workshop with Matthew Sweeney with Matthew Sweeney
Fri. sep. 27, '13 at 18:30
Matthew began Yoga as a teenager 25 years ago and has been learning about Asana, the body, meditation, self-development and spiritual practice ever since. He began Ashtanga Yoga in 1992 and has been teaching the traditional method since 1996. In recent years, he has also incorporated alternative sequences into his teaching as a support to the standard Ashtanga sequences. His workshops encompass a broadminded and holistic approach to keep working towards true connection and spirituality. Details
Ashtanga yoga workshop with Joan Hyman: From the Outside to the Inside with Joan Hyman
Sat. nov. 02, '13 at 09:30
Joan Hyman, who leads international teacher training programs for YogaWorks, will offer a fun and energizing Ashtanga yoga program exploring inversions such as handstand, back-bending asanas and pranayama. Details