![]() While a Vinyasa class will likely include some form of mental quieting and focus, it is less philosophical and doesn’t usually include chanting or designated meditative practice. However, when advertised as “power yoga”, Ashtanga styles may be solely focused on fitness and remove the spiritual aspects of the ancient style. ![]() Ashtanga is centered around internal transformation and seeks to embody the full 8-fold path of yoga both on and off the mat. Traditional Ashtanga classes include meditation, chanting mantra, self reflection, and more intense breathing exercises. But Ashtanga is significantly more spiritual and philosophical in its practice. You are probably already aware that practicing yoga encompasses far more than just physical postures.īoth Vinyasa and Ashtanga seek to sync breath with movement, improve mental focus, and help yogis achieve a deeper state of inner peace. As the breath links continuous movement and certain poses are repeated, there is less time for modifications.Īs in any studio, adjustments are completely optional and you should always let your instructor know if you don’t want to be touched. This is because poses are held longer and can be more self-paced.Ī Vinyasa teacher is is usually focused on leading the class and demonstrating postures rather than making adjustments to individual students. An Ashtanga teacher is far more likely to offer adjustments and recommendations for alignment. Hands-on adjustments also differ in these two styles. Vinyasa classes tend to be much shorter (30 to 60 minutes), more varied, and better for beginners who are short on time. Advanced power yoga classes can go as long as 2 hours. In regards to length, an Ashtanga yoga class takes at least 60 to 90 minutes to go through the Primary Sequence. The moral of the story is that Ashtanga is significantly more intense. However, these are only generalizations and either style can be practiced as recreationally or seriously as you’d like. ![]() Vinyasa tends to attract a more leisure crowd that wants to fit in a shorter practice at any time of day. Generally speaking, people who practice Ashtanga yoga are often more “intense” yogis that diligently show up to practice in the early morning. On the flip side, Vinyasa can also burn some major calories and build strength, but it is more accessible to beginners because it is less intense. Ashtanga classes tend to be the most intense and rigorous, which makes them great for weight loss, muscle building, and physical fitness. IntensityĪshtanga and Vinyasa Yoga differ drastically in their intensity. While both styles include flows, Vinyasa tends to be the most fluid and dynamic, while Ashtanga requires holding poses for longer periods of time. It is almost like a fluid dance, and these classes are more likely to play music in the studio. This style emphasizes the flowing movements and transitions between postures. Every class can be a little different, though it includes many familiar asanas from the Ashtanga school of yoga. Vinyasa Yoga offers more variation and creativity. Repeating the same postures over and over again is designed to purify the body internally and externally through moving meditation that aids in aligning your chakras. This sequence includes familiar Vinyasa flows such as Surya Namaskar A and B (sun salutations), in addition to a specific order of standing poses, seated poses, and chanting meditations. However, modern Ashtanga classes are centered around the Primary Sequence, which is the most beginner-friendly. It includes Advanced A, B, C, and D series The Advanced Series or Sthira Bhaga: center your strength.The Intermediate Series or Nadishodhana: purify the nervous system.The Primary Series or Yoga Chikitsa: yoga therapy for your health.But in a Vinyasa class, there is more variation and interpretations of flow sequences.Īshtanga traditionally encompasses six series: In Ashtanga classes, you repeat the same sequence of poses in the same order every time. The biggest difference between Ashtanga and Vinyasa is the rigidity of the sequence of postures. To fully understand the difference between the two, let’s take a look at the sequence, intensity, class length, adjustments, and philosophical underpinnings of each style: Sequence Ashtanga classes technically include Vinyasa flows during the Primary Sequence, which includes the classic Sun Salutation series. What is the Difference Between Ashtanga and Vinyasa Yoga?Īshtanga is often called “power yoga”, while Vinyasa is sometimes called “flow yoga”. 4 Key Takeaways: Vinyasa for Beginners & Ashtanga is More Intense.3.1 Vinyasa Yoga is best for people who:.2.1 Ashtanga Yoga is best for yogis who:.1 What is the Difference Between Ashtanga and Vinyasa Yoga?.
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