Guest guest Posted August 20, 2004 Report Share Posted August 20, 2004 > OK, so with that short intro, I'd like to ask a question. Do many, or > any, > of you share the belief that Ashtanga alone is enough to get or keep > one in > shape? Does anyone know if Madonna shares this view and whether or > not this is > all she does? (I'm a big fan of hers.) I attend classes 3 days a week at Maya Yoga, here in Kansas City. The owner and founder of the school, Kathleen Kastner, has a masters degree in exercise physiology and once served as a personal trainer to Deepak Chopra. According to her Ashtanga is more than enough ... "As an Exercise Physiologist, I view Ashtanga yoga as the MOST effective form of exercise and physical therapy that I have ever experienced. After moving to Kansas City, I quit gyms and fitness centers completely in 1999 and have never felt happier and healthier in my life! On the physical level, Ashtanga yoga is cardiovascular, strength and flexibility training all rolled into an hour and a half experience. Ashtanga yoga can replace your current exercise routine, especially if you are bored with the Kansas City health clubs and personal trainers. Or, it can enhance your current fitness program(s) or sport of choice by increasing your performance and keeping you from getting injured." (http://www.mayayoga.com/2004/articles.html) Honestly, if you look at the posture's in the series, especially the advanced series, you need to be very, very strong and very, very fit to master them. I've not viewed the videos of which you have spoken, but I would seriously recommend you attend an actual class if at all possible. The other thing I want to say is that Ashtanga is really a breathing meditation ... it is a spiritual practice ... not just an exercise routine. The postures are merely a distraction to help you master your thoughts and calm the inner chatter which constantly fills our minds. The real magic is learning how to stay in touch with your breath, go within, and still the mind. That is why I like Kathleen's classes so much ... we address the spiritual aspect of Ashtanga along with the physical challenges it offers. Namaste, Drew. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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