ISHTA is an acronym for Integrated Science of Hatha, Tantra and Ayurveda. Hatha refers to physical yoga postures, Tantra refers to meditative practices, and Ayurveda is an ancient system for holistic health. These three yogic elements combine to create a healthy, balanced body and mind as a platform for spiritual growth. The word Ishta in Sanskrit also means “individual”. ISHTA yoga promotes developing a personalized practice to addresses one’s individual needs and discover one’s own path.
What to expect
A typical ISHTA class will take students through flowing sequences of postures reminiscent of the Ashtanga and Iyengar traditions, including standing poses, balancing poses, and classical sun salutations. Students are encouraged to learn to listen to their bodies to properly align their postures and link their movements to their breath. Classes will also involve meditation techniques and encourage self-awareness and self-acceptance.
ISHTA was created in South Africa during the 1960s by renowned yoga master Alan Finger, alongside his father, Kavi Yogiraj Mani Finger, a disciple of Swami Venkatesananda and Paramahansa Yogananda.