Ashtanga Yoga

Pronounced "ashanga" yoga, this "power" method of doing yoga is one of the fastest growing yoga methods. It doesn't hurt that both Madonna and Sting (and, presumably, a bunch of other one-name celebrities) are practitioners. Ashtanga is a more physical form of yoga involving poses designed to pre-heat the body (allowing muscles to stretch further and with more ease), jumping movements between poses and a breathing method called ujjayi. Developed by K. Pattabhi Jois, it's literal meaning -- Eight Limb Yoga -- points to the fact that it is composed of eight spiritual practices designed to cleanse one internally and externally.

Ashtanga Yoga Offers a number of resources related to Ashtanga yoga, including a teacher directory, workshop list and a variety of articles. Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute The Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute offers a wide variety of information on their Website, including a section outlining fundamental, primary, and finishing asanas.