Ashtanga yoga has evolved over thousands of years.    

                                                                            Around 200 BC, in order  to attain a state of 'yoga', the renowned sage Pantanjali, determined a series of steps, based  on "eight limbs" or Ashtanga.  This exalted state of self-realization derives from a union of mind, body and soul, with all distractions to taking control of the mind removed.  The "third limb", or Asana, that is the practice of yoga postures, is at the heart of Ashtanga yoga teaching to this day and emphasizes the role of the breath in focusing the mind.