Ashtanga Primary Series
Ashtanga - Primary Series ( Led class)
I was very excited to share my passion for Ashtanga practice with the fellow Ashtangis who came to practice with me. This was the first time I led a full Primary Series class - and the experience was as amazing as expected and more.
The Ashtanga Primary Series is called Yoga Chikitsa, meaning yoga therapy, because of the cleansing and toning effect it has on both body and mind. On a physical level the postures build strength and flexibility and help to detoxify the body and the settle the nervous system. On a mental level the practice helps to develop bodymind awareness, patience and will power and with regular practice confidence. Ashtanga Yoga is a dynamic set series of postures designed to build strength, flexibility, endurance and focus. This dynamic practice includes Meditation, Chant, Sun Salutations, Standing Sequence, Primary Series, and Finishing Sequence.
I started this session started with a 20 minute meditation which was followed by the full Primary Series. The students were following my lead and demonstration of postures and where desired I showed modifications and ways to adjust to poses to suit everyone’s needs and physical structure and level of experience.
During the class I offered verbal and physical (optional) adjustments to support everyone’s practice and access to the postures. There is always a drive to experience the postures on a deeper level.
The breath was the key element throughout the practice that kept us connected to each other and fluid in our own practice. We aimed to achieve a sense of internal physical awareness, as the focus remained on the internal composure and the sense of balance achieved both on a physical and mental plane.
Here some benefits to expect when practicing the Primary Series on a regular bases:
Build strength, flexibility, endurance and focus
Breath awareness
Improve muscle tone and balance weight
Cultivate a calm, steady and focussed mind
Understand the sections of the practice: Sun salutation, Standing, Primary Series and Finishing.
Learn the traditional Ashtanga Chant