Both Ashtanga and Vinyasa yoga are deeply rooted in ancient yogic practices. These two yoga styles follow similar principles like a focal point, meditation, different postures, sequence of body movement, and the right breathing technique. However, when it comes to comparing the two yoga styles you will find that both are similar yet different at the same time.

Let us first check out what the terms Ashtanga and Vinyasa yoga stands for, and what makes one different from another.

First, let us start by knowing what is ashtanga yoga style.

Ashtanga Yoga

The literal translation of Ashtanga yoga means “8 limbs of yoga”. It refers to the eight limbs of yoga outlined in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. Each of these limbs is an important pillar for the foundation of yoga and represents a sacred value.

The eight limbs of yoga include;

1) Yama – Rules of the moral code

2) Niyama – Observing Yama through personal restraint and behavior

3) Asana – The yoga postures

4) Pranayama – Breathing Techniques

5) Pratyahara – Withdrawal of the senses

6) Dharana – Concentration

7) Dhyana – Meditation

Samadhi – Oneness with the divine

The Ashtanga yoga practice you do places importance on the eight values which help you move from a beginner yoga practitioner to an advanced yoga practitioner.

That being said, it is time we take a look at what is vinyasa yoga style.

Vinyasa Yoga – In a Nutshell

The term Vinyasa means to connect your breathing with movement in the yoga poses. Vinyasa also refers to the sequence of yoga poses that are practiced during a vinyasa yoga class. The teacher leads you through each pose. The yoga teacher creates a different sequence every time to help you go with the flow. The vinyasa yoga class also utilizes yoga props and music as per the student's preferences.
Also Read: Hatha Vs Vinyasa

Now, that we are clear about both types of yoga styles, let us check out what makes one different from another.

1. Sequencing

Ashtanga yoga generally consists of a series of postures that range from primary to advanced. However, vinyasa yoga poses vary according to what the yoga teacher wants them to be.

2. Style of Learning

Developing a habit of daily practice is up to the student in Ashtanga yoga. On the other hand, Vinyasa yoga is generally led by an experienced yoga teacher.

3. Level of Practice

The Ashtanga yoga classes generally have forward bending yoga asana for primary, backbends for secondary, and arm-balancing poses in the advanced category. On the contrary, vinyasa yoga classes feature yoga poses chosen by the yoga teacher.

4. Yoga Props

A practitioner of Ashtanga yoga class does not use any props, modifications, or music during the practice. In the vinyasa yoga classes, the teacher makes the prop available to help you adapt to the asana.

Conclusion

Although there are a variety of yoga styles you can learn but when it comes to learning Ashtanga or Vinyasa yoga style then finding a reliable yoga school is paramount for your success.