Hi all,

Just wondering if we could get a discussion going about our physical approach to practice of two fundamental parts of Ashtanga; asana and vinyasa, and how we apply them. I know this is perhaps a detraction from Ashtanga Vinyasa, but I'm curious as to how different people explore Hatha and their bodies within the framework we have.

Inspired, as always, by our good old friend Grimmly, I've been experimenting with practicing the series in a few different ways, instead of just fast or slow, to suit my condition;

• with posture as mudra - making each posture a stopping with kumbhaka
• with posture as vinyasa - emphasising constant natural movement into, out of, and within each posture (like qigong/tai chi)
• the whole thing being one big sun salutation - each posture is a contemplation between the 6th and 7th vinyasa of the sun salutation
• using mantra with breath - "breathing in I am calm, breathing out I am at ease, calm, ease" - Thich Nhat Hanh

It still has the dynamic energy of Ashtanga but I feel like it has gotten far more meditative slowing down like this. Thoughts? Experiences? Let's discuss!