Yoga Philosophies: Ashtanga 

Principle Techniques of the Practice of Ashtanga Yoga 

Tristana -

1. VINYASA: breath and movement system  

2. BANDHA: internal muscular locks (mula bandha, uddiyana bandha, jalandhara bandha) These contractions are intended to protect the spine and internal organs and control energy flow. There are three main bandhas involving three muscle groups: perineal, abdominal, and cervical (neck). Contraction affects nervous, circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, and energetic systems. Energetically, bandhas are used as means of untying granthis (psychic knots or blockages) which exist as tension, anxieties, repressions, and unresolved conflicts. Bandhas help control breath, and breath controls consciousness.

3. DRISTI: eye gazing-focal point

4. UJJAYI PRANAYAMA: The breathing technique performed within this practice which means "victorious breath". UJJAYI is an even, steady rhythmic breath that begins at the back of the throat with SOUND and the mouth closed. This cultivates an internal heat which brings about sweat for the purpose of detoxification.