Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga - The Primary Series

This Friday, I’ll be leading 889’s Pranification class with an introduction to the full Primary Series of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. This sequence contains the foundational postures from which all other forms of vinyasa yoga have evolved. We’ll begin with surya namaskar A and B, our sun salutations, and then progress through standing postures, followed by seated postures, inversions and finally the traditional closing sequence. Some of the poses covered in this practice may be new to some, as there is rarely time to cover the entire sequence in typical 75-minute classes.

On Friday, the focus of the class will be on the breath - when to inhale and when to exhale through transitions between poses, while holding each asana for 5 deep, deliberate breaths. When certain poses present a challenge, we return to the breath, looking for stillness and ease in each pose, regardless of what we’re asking for from our bodies. What differentiates Ashtanga from other branches of vinyasa yoga is the emphasis on transitions between asanas - where we “lift up, jump back” between sides and after each pose. Moving through chaturanga, upward dog and downward dog repeatedly throughout the practice keeps the internal fire burning, and in doing so encourages the build-up of heat in the body, fueling a natural detoxification process.

We’ll explore this practice together on Friday, moving through the sequence at a steady pace in order to experience how continuous movement can be altogether invigorating. The class is open to all - whether you’ve never taken an Ashtanga class, or you’re a seasoned vinyasa addict, you’re sure to gain something from this traditional practice. I look forward to seeing you there!

~Cecily