Ashtanga Vinyasa - First series. Ashtanga yoga is the name given to the system that was transmitted by Pattabhi Jois in Mysore, India. In Ashtanga yoga, the first series of postures are called yoga chikitsa (yoga therapy). Practicing the preliminary series is intended to purify the body and internal organs. Each posture has specific benefits. For example, forward bends tone the organs. The Ashtanga yoga system gives equal importance to strength and flexibility. This class is not suitable for beginners.