Guru Pattabhi Jois, a name synonymous with Ashtanga Yoga, has profoundly influenced the yoga world. His teachings and dedication to spreading yoga globally have left an indelible mark on the way yoga is practiced today. As one of the most respected figures in modern yoga, his contributions have not only reshaped yoga as a practice but also fostered a global community of dedicated practitioners. In this article, we explore the life, teachings, and lasting legacy of Guru Pattabhi Jois, a spiritual master whose philosophy continues to inspire millions.
Who Was Guru Pattabhi Jois?
Pattabhi Jois was born on July 26, 1915, in a small village called Kowshika, near Hassan, in the state of Karnataka, India. From an early age, Jois was drawn to spiritual pursuits and began studying yoga under the guidance of his teacher, Sri T. Krishnamacharya. Krishnamacharya, known as the father of modern yoga, taught Jois not only the asanas (yoga postures) but also the deep philosophical aspects of yoga.
Jois’s dedication to the practice led him to spend years studying under Krishnamacharya. In 1937, he opened his own yoga school in Mysore, which eventually became the world-renowned Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute. Over time, Jois gained a reputation as a master of Ashtanga Yoga, attracting students from across the world to learn from him.
Guru Pattabhi Jois passed away on May 18, 2009, but his teachings continue to be revered and practiced by yoga enthusiasts globally. His influence on modern yoga, particularly in the West, remains profound, with countless practitioners embracing his dynamic and holistic approach to yoga.
The Philosophy of Ashtanga Yoga
At the heart of Guru Pattabhi Jois’s teachings lies Ashtanga Yoga—a system of yoga that emphasizes the integration of breath, movement, and gaze. “Ashta” means eight, and “anga” means limbs in Sanskrit, referring to the eightfold path outlined by the ancient sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. Jois’s approach to yoga revolves around these eight limbs, which are:
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Yama (ethical disciplines)
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Niyama (self-disciplines)
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Asana (postures)
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Pranayama (breathing techniques)
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Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses)
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Dharana (concentration)
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Dhyana (meditation)
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Samadhi (enlightenment)
However, what set Ashtanga Yoga apart was Jois’s emphasis on a unique combination of physical postures (asanas) and vinyasa—a specific technique that synchronizes breath with movement. As the practitioner moves through each series of postures, the focus is placed on breathing in a rhythmic and controlled manner, creating a flow that aids in purifying the body and mind.
The Three Primary Components of Ashtanga Yoga
Guru Pattabhi Jois’s approach to Ashtanga Yoga centers around three key aspects:
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Vinyasa (Breath and Movement): Vinyasa refers to the coordination of breath with movement. In Ashtanga, each posture is linked to a specific breath, creating a seamless flow from one posture to the next. This creates heat in the body, purifying it through sweat and helping the practitioner build strength, flexibility, and focus.
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Drishti (Gaze): In addition to breath and movement, Jois emphasized the importance of the gaze in Ashtanga Yoga. The gaze directs focus, aiding in concentration and preventing distractions. Different postures have specific points where practitioners direct their gaze, which enhances mental clarity and deepens the practice.
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Bandhas (Energy Locks): Bandhas are energetic locks that help control the flow of energy within the body. Jois taught that engaging the Mula Bandha (root lock) and Uddiyana Bandha (abdominal lock) during practice allows energy to rise through the body, resulting in greater power and focus.
The Six Series of Ashtanga Yoga
One of the distinctive features of Ashtanga Yoga is its structure—there are six series of postures, each progressively more advanced. These series include:
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Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa): This series is designed to purify the body, focusing on the hips, hamstrings, and spine. It is often the first series students learn when beginning their Ashtanga practice.
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Intermediate Series (Nadi Shodhana): The Intermediate Series aims to purify the nervous system and open the energy channels in the body. It involves deeper backbends and hip-openers.
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Advanced Series (Sthira Bhaga): There are three advanced series: A, B, and C. These are meant for advanced practitioners and are intended to build strength, stamina, and flexibility.
Guru Pattabhi Jois believed that by practicing these series in a disciplined manner, students would gradually experience greater physical and mental clarity.
Key Teachings and Legacy of Guru Pattabhi Jois
Guru Pattabhi Jois’s teachings went beyond the physical practice of yoga. His philosophy emphasized the importance of discipline, dedication, and consistency in practice. He often said, “Practice and all is coming,” a phrase that resonated deeply with students. Jois stressed that yoga is not just about physical postures, but a lifelong journey of self-discovery and transformation.
Jois also believed in the importance of a teacher-student relationship, which is central to the practice of Ashtanga Yoga. His approach was based on traditional Indian teachings, where the guru plays a pivotal role in guiding the student on their spiritual path. Many of Jois’s students, including influential teachers such as Sharath Jois (his grandson) and others, have carried on his legacy by teaching and spreading the Ashtanga method worldwide.
The Global Influence of Guru Pattabhi Jois
Guru Pattabhi Jois’s influence extends far beyond his native India. He played a pivotal role in bringing Ashtanga Yoga to the West. In the 1970s, Jois began traveling internationally, teaching workshops and spreading the practice to countries such as the United States, Europe, and Australia.
His Mysore-based Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute became a pilgrimage site for students seeking authentic teachings. Over the years, this led to the creation of a worldwide Ashtanga Yoga community. The Mysore style, which emphasizes self-practice in the presence of a teacher, became one of the most popular ways of learning Ashtanga.
Today, Guru Pattabhi Jois’s legacy lives on through his students, who continue to share the transformative power of Ashtanga Yoga. The Mysore-style practice remains a staple in yoga studios across the globe, and many modern-day yoga teachers still carry forward the techniques and philosophies taught by Guru Pattabhi Jois.
Conclusion: Guru Pattabhi Jois’s Enduring Legacy
Guru Pattabhi Jois’s contributions to yoga are immeasurable. He not only introduced the world to Ashtanga Yoga but also instilled in his students a deep understanding of the holistic nature of yoga. Through his practice, he taught us that yoga is more than just physical postures—it’s a discipline that cultivates mindfulness, strength, flexibility, and inner peace.
His teachings continue to inspire and guide yoga practitioners around the world, helping them find balance, clarity, and wellness. Whether you’re a seasoned yoga practitioner or a beginner, the legacy of Guru Pattabhi Jois offers valuable lessons in how to approach yoga with dedication, humility, and an open heart.