Astanga, or at times spelled ashtanga Yoga is actually taught today by a person named Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, in Mysore, India. He has brought astanga yoga to the west about 25 years ago and still teaches today at 91 years of age. Astanga yoga began with the rediscovery of the ancient manuscript Yoga Korunta. It entails a unique system of Hatha yoga as practiced and created by the ancient sage Vamana Rishi. It is believed to be the original asana practice intended by Patanjali.
The Yoga Korunta emphasizes Iyengar yoga, or breath-synchronized movement, where one practices a posture with specific breathing technique associated with it. This breathing pattern is called ujayyi pranayama, or the victorious breath, and it is a process that makes intense internal heat and a profuse sweat that purifies and detoxifies the muscles and organs. This also releases beneficial hormones and nutrients. The breath ensures efficient circulation of blood. The result is improved circulation, a light and strong body and a calm mind.
There is a known sequence to follow when practicing Astanga yoga. One must graduate from one sequence of postures to move onto the next. The Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa) detoxifies and aligns the body, purifying it so that toxins are not blocked. The Intermediate Series (Nadi Shodhana) purifies the nervous system by opening and clearing the energy channels, allowing energy to pass through without any problem. The Advanced Series A, B, C, and D (Sthira Bhaga) brings together the grace and stamina of the practice, which calls for strong flexibility.
It’s best to find a properly trained and knowledgeable teacher to assist you through this discipline. It is an intense practice that is tiring, six days a week. You are most likely to find inner peace and satisfaction with each breath you take.