Keen on Yoga Podcast Ep 231 Adam Keen – Why Everyone Should Practice a Version of Ashtanga Intermediate Series
Jun 29, 2025
The discussion highlights the vital role of the Intermediate Series in Ashtanga Yoga and challenges the gatekeeping that limits access for students. Emphasizing a holistic approach, it advocates practicing both the Primary and Intermediate Series for injury prevention and improved flexibility. The conversation encourages participants to embrace their individuality by adapting postures to suit their unique needs. Understanding foundational principles rather than striving for perfection is key to deepening one's practice.
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Primary and Intermediate Complementarity
- The primary and intermediate Ashtanga series complement each other by balancing flexion and back extension.
- They were originally taught as a continuous practice, not separated as often done today.
Breath and Backbends Connection
- Primary series focuses on exhale breath with flexion; intermediate series focuses on inhale breath with back extension.
- The intermediate series offers backbends that are preparatory for harder postures and prevent forced, injury-prone attempts.
Avoid Gatekeeping in Yoga
- Don’t be held back by teachers gatekeeping intermediate series based on perfect posture.
- Start the intermediate series after grasping primary basics to avoid stagnation and build body strength.