Yoga Practice Track: Class 1

Ashtanga Yoga was the form of Hatha Yoga practiced today. The goals of this practice are, ideally, are to transcend the ego and find realization of the true self. As well as develop the body's potential to withstand transcendental realization.
The goals of the practice stated in the class did not overtly indicate that self transcendence was the goal. However, it was indirectly stated that without coordination of the breath with the postures yoga was just another exercise.
The elements of yoga philosophy that were made part of the practice instructions were pranayama (breath control) and prana (life force). These two elements supported the practice by emphasizing the philosophy over the actual practice. The incorporation of these made the experience more of a personal endeavor rather than just another exercise class.
My instructor also emphasized the concept of stillness and quieting the mind. The room practiced in is a "Quiet Room". Shoes and other belongings are left in a neighboring room to ensure this.