Yoga is one of the six orthodox systems of Indian Philosophy. The date of its origin is difficult to pinpoint, as the actual era from which this knowledge came is much less important than the knowledge itself.

The word “yoga” is a sanskrit term that has many meanings. The word itself is derived from the sanskrit root “yuj” – to yoke or harness.

Just as one would bring an ox under control by harnessing it to a wagon, yoga can be viewed as a process of training and uniting the body, mind and spirit. It has been practiced over the centuries many different forms.

Traditional Ashtanga Yoga is the name given to a set of practices compiled by the sage Patanjali some time between 200 BCE to 250 CE. Ashtanga Yoga is translated from the Sanskrit language as: 8 Limbs of Yoga .

Very little is known about the sage Patanjali, although he is credited with writing texts on grammar, ayurveda, and most importantly for us, on yoga.

Simply put, Ashtanga Yoga Philosophy describes a spiritual discipline or path that promotes harmony within the individual self, and creates connection with a greater universal Self or Reality.

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The popular system of “Ashtanga Yoga” that is widely practiced today, traces its more recent origins back to Sri K. Pattabhi Jois.

Sri K. Pattabhi Jois became a student of Sri T. Krishnamacharya in 1927 at the age of 12. Over the next twenty-five years, he learned and mastered the practices passed on to him by his Guru.

Pattabhi Jois at 94 years old still gives conferences for his students at his home in Mysore, India.

Pattabhi Jois (Guruji) believes it is essential for most practitioners to enter the 8 limbs of yoga through asana. This system of yoga asana helps to purify the body and the mind creating a environment suitable for meditiation.

Ashtanga Yoga Philosophy

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