If you are searching for a form of yoga that gives you a toned body, better control over your thoughts, better management of your emotions, and a road to attain spiritual liberation, try out Ashtanga yoga. This yoga form has its roots in the ancient text of Yoga Korunta, which was written by Vamana Rishi.

In the early 1900s, Rama Mohan Brahmachari passed on the information present in Yoga Korunta to his disciple Sri T. Krishnamacharya, who in turn passed it on to his disciple Pattabhi Jois in the beginning of 1927. Although the Yoga Sutras considered asana as the third limb and states that the first two limbs should be followed first, Sri Pattabhi Jois believed that asana, or postures, is where you should begin since it makes you aware of your body, your mind, and your breath.

As you continue with your asanas, you will notice yourself to be calmer. Your mind will quieter and stiller. Believe it or not, these practices are not just for hermits; you can also aim at reaching these stages while continuing your life in the material world. It will take years and years of sustained practice, but it is definitely doable.

Let's get started and start living a more spiritual, healthier and complete life by following ashtanga.