Classical Astanga

Patanjali's Ashtanga (or Astanga) refers to the classical, eight-limbed path of yoga outlined in his Yoga Sutras, focusing primarily on the mental and philosophical aspects of liberation through meditation. The eight-limbs include ethical guidelines (Yama and Niyama), physical postures (Asana), breath control (Pranayama), sense control (Pratyahara), concentration (Dharana), meditation (Dhyana), and absorption (Samadhi).

Patanjali is known for codifying Ashtanga Yoga, the "eight-limbed path," in his ancient Sanskrit text, the Yoga Sutras, likely compiled between 200-400 CE.

Modern Ashtanga

In contrast, the modern Ashtanga yoga popularized by K. Pattabhi Jois is a specific, physically demanding asana (posture) system that includes the philosophical foundation of Patanjali's eight limbs but emphasizes a dynamic, flowing sequence of postures synchronized with breath (vinyasa) and Ujjayi breath. The structured practice begins and ends with sun salutations, followed by a fixed series of postures. There are six series of increasing difficulty, with most practitioners focusing on the Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa). Modern Ashtanga is traditionally taught in the Mysore style where students practice the sequence at their own pace with individual guidance from the teacher.

Ashtanga yoga was developed in the 20th century by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois under the guidance of his guru, T. Krishnamacharya, drawing from the ancient practice of yoga and an ancient text known as the "Yoga Korunta". This system is known for its dynamic, flowing sequences of postures (vinyasas) linked by breath, creating a path of eight limbs towards self-discipline and realization. The practice gained global popularity through Jois's efforts in the West and is now directed by his grandson, R. Sharath Jois, at the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India.