- Nadi Shodhana Intermediate Series: Second Series Of Ashtanga Yoga. The Primary Series heals the body of impurities, while, the Second Series (or nadi shodhana) helps clear the energy channels. When the energy channels are clear, the sympathetic and the parasympathetic nervous system is well stimulated and balanced.
- The second series of Ashtanga yoga, also called the intermediate series or the nadi shodhana series, is a sequence of poses designed to clear the energy channels.Ashtanga yoga asana practice begins with five repetitions each of sun salutation A and sun salutation B followed by a standing sequence; and practice ends with the closing sequence.
- The Second Series is known as Nadi Shodana, which means 'nerve cleansing.' This series focuses on the energetic regions of the spine, pelvis, and hips. Experience traditional pacing and vinyasa of Ashtanga's intermediate second series. Students must have experience with second series in the Mysore classroom up to eka pada sirsasana.
The Ashtanga Second Series can be intimidating. Upon first glance some of the poses may seem impossible, but with supportive and expert instruction, the impossible will soon become possible. Practice with Kino in the mornings and study technique and philosophy with her in the afternoons. Level 3-Experienced ashtanga yoga practitioners with excellent stamina and physical ability. Level 4-Advanced practitioners with ability to progress beyond the primary series. Level 5-Advanced practitioners and teachers with abilities up through the majority of the second series.
Why do I keep making cheat sheets?
Students aren’t allowed to use them in my Mysore room.
On many occasions, I’ve pried a sweaty cheat sheet out of the trembling hands of a nervous student.
Why can’t you use a cheat sheet?
Ashtanga Second Series Poses Names
Because memorizing the sequence of asanas is part of learning the practice. Committing the series to memory promotes concentration. Doing all that hard work helps you to own your practice. And, finally, we Ashtangis are infamous for eschewing props, and what’s the cheat sheet but a prop for your brain? (Sidenote- upon the discovery and development of writing, Plato called it “A pernicious crutch to memory”.)
So if you can’t use them in the room, why do I bother making them? I think it’s because I like to see little pictures of myself doing the poses. Specifically, doing the poses the way I want my students to do the poses. So, a little bit of ego, and a little bit of honest concern.
Ashtanga Second Series Postures
Anyway, here they are. Feel free to download and share them. Just don’t bring them into my Mysore room.
BTW- all the pics are from the fantastic Tim Bermingham!
Primary Series:
Ashtanga Second Series Poster
Intermediate Series: