Ashtanga Yoga is a form of yoga that synchronizes breathing with progressive postures that promote strength, flexibility, and mental clarity.
"Ashtanga" means "Eight Limbs" in Sanskrit, referring to the eightfold path of yoga outlined by the sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. These limbs include ethical principles (Yamas and Niyamas), postures (Asanas), breath control (Pranayama), sense withdrawal (Pratyahara), concentration (Dharana), meditation (Dhyana), and ultimate self-realization (Samadhi).
How is Ashtanga Yoga Done?
Ashtanga yoga comprises a specific set of yoga poses performed sequentially for the same breath count. The most common asanas are:
- Forward Bend
- Extended Triangle
- Extended Side Angle
- Wide Legged Forward Fold
- Intense Side Stretch
Benefits of Ashtanga Yoga
Regular practice of Ashtanga Yoga has numerous benefits. Some of the Ashtanga Yoga benefits are as follows:
Strength and Flexibility: Regular practice increases the range of motion and flexibility in muscles and joints, promoting endurance and strength
Cardiovascular Health: Improves blood circulation, increases heart rate and lowers blood pressure
Stress Reduction & Mental Clarity: Calms the nervous system, helping to relax and unwind. This also improves concentration and cultivates mental clarity.
Improved Digestion: Stimulates the digestive and lymphatic system, removing toxins and improving overall health.
Promotes Weight Management: Since the asanas are physically demanding, they also help to burn calories and keep weight in check.
Boosts Immune System: Regular practice helps in detoxification, promotes sleep, and reduces episodes of anxiety and depression, boosting overall immunity and well-being.
Benefits of Ashtanga Namaskara
Ashtanga Namaskara, also known as the Eight-Limbed Pose or the Chest-Knee-Chin Pose, is a yoga pose that’s balanced on your palms, feet, knees, chest, and chin. Repeated practice of this asana relieves backaches, calms the mind, strengthens chest muscle, posture, flexibility and more.
Conclusion
Ashtanga yoga improves both physical and mental well-being when done regularly. However, despite practicing yoga and leading a healthy lifestyle, ensure that you have health insurance to take care of medical emergencies and hospitalisations, as matters of health can be unpredictable at times.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.