Yoga Practice Track: Class 5

The practice for the day was Ashtanga Yoga-often known as the more intense form of yoga. The goals of the practice
Class commenced with sun salutations to warm the body. After a seriesof these we moved through the standing postures in preparation for the sitting postures- all while concentrating on the breath.
Jessica reminded the class to surrender to the postures, not to force the muscles to a stretch as this often leads to resistance. She also reminded the class to focus on our own abilities and no one else's. This was really just an indirect reminder to keep our eyes in check to prevent any injuries.
Some elements of philosophy included in the practice were prana and pranayama. These elements seemed to support the practice by stressing breath as the life force and emphasized its importance in the practice.
The philosophical elements of this form of Hatha Yoga really supported the practice. Because this form of yoga is so intense and demanding it was helpful to have philosphical elements to push through the physical part.