Ashtanga yoga is a traditional form of yoga, which emphasises the synchronisation of breath and movement. It can be practiced by anyone, whether stiff or flexible, weak or strong, old or young.
Different postures (asanas) and dynamical movements are performed following sequences that are designed to bring strength and flexibility, as well as to clean and detoxify the body. Depending on one’s abilities and needs, simpler or more difficult asanas are performed.
A particular attention is paid to breath, which has to stay deep and calm during the practice. Inhale and exhale are synchronized with the movements, a method known as vinyasa. Combined with internal muscular contraction (bandhas) and gazing point (dristi) in every position, it turns the mind toward inner focus and develop concentration.
yanakoyoga.com 