Ashtanga yoga is a system of hatha yoga taught by an Indian brahmin named Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. Legend has it that while Pattabhi Jois and his teacher and Sanskrit scholar, Krishnamacharya, were researching in a Calcutta library, they came across an ancient manuscript called the Yoga Korunta. The Yoga Korunta consisted of hundreds of stanzas of rhymed, metered sutras giving detailed information on several series of yoga asanas (poses) and pranayama (breathing) techniques. Pattabhi Jois mastered the series and became the principal teacher and guru of Ashtanga yoga. When practiced in its correct sequential order, Ashtanga yoga gradually leads the practitioner to rediscover his or her fullest potential on all levels of human consciousness - physical, psychological, and spiritual.


Through this practice of sequenced postures, employing correct breathing and gazing points, one gains control of the senses and a deep awareness of the self. Ashtanga yoga is different from other types of yoga for several reasons: Ashtanga consists of a set series of poses in a specific order, linked together like a flowing dance. Successive poses within the series are complementary, developing strength and flexibility at the same time. Each pose prepares the body for the pose to follow. Like entering a sequence of numbers to open a combination lock, this sequence of postures is performed to open the body and mind.

Another unique quality of Ashtanga is the internal heat generated from the practice. This heat is created by the flowing physical practice, mental concentration, and a special breathing technique called "ujjayi pranayama." This audible breath creates heat in the body and focuses the mind, bringing the yogi or yogini back to the present moment. Other factors that cultivate concentration are bandhas (internal muscular locks) and drishti (specific gazing points held during each pose). With time and practice, the combination of these elements produces a yoga practice that is incredibly challenging and rewarding, empowering and healing, meditative and centering.


There are three groups of sequences in the Ashtanga system: the Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa) detoxifies and aligns the body; the Intermediate Series (Nadi Shodhana) purifies the nervous system by opening and clearing the energy channels; and the Advanced Series A, B, C, and D (Sthira Bhaga) integrates the strength and grace of the practice, requiring higher levels of flexibility and humility. Each level is to be fully developed before proceeding to the next, and the sequential order of asanas is to be meticulously followed. Each posture is a preparation for the next, developing the strength and balance required to move further.

According to Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, "yoga is 99% practice,
1% theory." The theory was just explained, while the practice must be experienced. Georgetown Yoga seeks to provide the space for this self discovery. As a studio based on the Ashtanga tradition, we have been influenced by many Ashtangis, such as Beryl Bender Birch, Kino MacGregor, and Dave Oliver, and often invite them to the studio for weekend workshops. We also offer daily classes and events that are a reflection of this inspirational practice.