How does this differ from Iyengar yoga?
The poses come from the same source in both the Iyengar and ashtanga systems. When we talk about alignment and form in a vinyasa class, that body of technique comes from Iyengar yoga. Pattabhi Jois, the head of the ashtanga lineage, and B.K.S. Iyengar both had the same teacher, Krishnamacharya. Iyengar chose to ignore the breathwork (which he likes teaching separately) and the vinyasas of the ashtanga system for his basic classes. More advanced Iyengar practice involves what he calls “jumpings” — much like Surya Namaskara A from the ashtanga system.
