Ashtanga Yoga is a form of yoga characterized by a series of six body postures, always performed in the same order. This process creates heat in the body, which leads to cleansing through perspiration.

Ashtanga yoga is an ancient form of yoga that came back into practice in the early 20th century. By the second half of the century it was being practiced around the globe. Literally translating to "eight-limbed yoga," ashtanga yoga is built around eight different spiritual practices concerning the mind and body. The first four practices are external, while the second four are internal. These practices are designed to heat the body, which leads to cleansing.

Achieve control over the mind and body through the performance of different postures and breathing exercises.

Ashtanga yoga is a process involving eight different spiritual practices. The first four - yama, niyama, asana, pranayama - are external cleansing practices. The second four - pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. Done properly, all motion and breathing are performed in a coordinated manner.

Ashtanga yoga was recorded thousands of years ago in the famous book "Yoga Korunta," by the sage Vamana Rishi. In the early 20th century, the text fell into the hands of Guru Rama Mohan Brahmachari who imparted its teachings to Sri Krishnamacharya and Pattabhi Jois. In 1948, Jois began teaching the discipline of ashtanga yoga to the world.

Yoga Mat

Ashtanga yoga is considered a safe activity due to a lack of physical contact between participants. However, injuries to the spine, knees and hamstrings have been known to occur. Proper instruction and technique can significantly reduce the risk of injury.

One should only learn ashtanga yoga from a trained and certified instructor. Prior experience with other forms of yoga can be a significant benefit in regards to proper breathing methods and flexibility.

Asana - posture; one of the eight spiritual practices of ashtanga

Dharana - concentration; one of the eight spiritual practices of ashtanga

Dhyana - meditation; one of the eight spiritual practices of ashtanga

Niyama - self purification and study; one of the eight spiritual practices of ashtanga

Pranayama - breath control; one of the eight spiritual practices of ashtanga

Pratyahara - sense control; one of the eight spiritual practices of ashtanga

Samadhi - contemplation; one of the eight spiritual practices of ashtanga

Vinyasa - system of breathing and movement; one breath is taken per movement

Yama - moral codes; one of the eight spiritual practices of ashtanga

http://www.ashtanga.com/html/background.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashtanga_Vinyasa_Yoga