ASHTANGA YOGA

THE ASHTANGA YOGA SYSTEM

The path of Ashtanga yoga is initiated by practice. Together we practice, studying ourselves through the use of postures, breath, and an in depth study of the eight limbed philosophy. Understanding happens when we step into the fire and allow inner transformation to take place.

Ashtanga yoga is an ancient system of yoga recorded by Vamana Rishi in the Yoga Korunta. Shri. K. Pattabhi Jois was taught this method by Tirumalai Krishnamacharya during his studies started in 1927.

This practice promotes the purification of the six poisons that surround the heart- Kama, krodha, moha, lobha, matsarya, and mada which translated are desire, anger, delusion, greed, envy, and sloth. When a yoga practice is practiced with dedication and devotion over a long period of time, the heat generated burns away these poisons and allows our inner light to shine through- us at our true nature.

 

The dharma or duty of the student is to practice diligently and with faith to understand the teachings of the practice and their teacher. Knowledge grows from mutual love and respect with one’s relationship with their teacher, that can only be cultivated over time.

The teachers dharma or duty is to transmit the practice directly as they learned it from their teacher. The teacher should lead by example and present the teachings with good intentions so that the student can master the knowledge the teacher embodies.

The yoga tradition exists in many ancient lineages, but today some are trying to create new ones, altering their teacher’s teachings in favor of their own ways. Surrendering to Parampara is like entering a river that has been flowing for thousands of years, which age old masters have followed into an ocean of wisdom. Those who enter such a sacred river do so with deep respect, humility, and devotion honoring their teachers and the lineage from which these ancient traditions were born.

Schedule

New students are welcomed.
No experience is required.

A one month commitment of coming to Mysore class of at least three times per week is a requirement before beginning.

Drop ins are only allowed for practitioners with an already established daily Mysore practice. We love visits from practitioners who visit from out of town. Send us an email and let us know which dates you are coming.

Mysore is Monday through Thursday 6-9am. Saturday & Sunday at 8:30am

Led class, chanting, & yoga philosophy is Friday 7:30am

 

CLASSES


Mysore

Mysore is the traditional approach to Ashtanga Yoga where the practitioner receives one on one instruction of breath and movement as they move through a sequence of postures. This is the way to upkeep, practice, and learn Ashtanga Yoga. When you do not know what you are doing next, your attention will always be on your teacher taking the focus off of yourself. Mysore allows all students, from beginner to advanced practitioners to memorize and develop a self-practice allowing themselves to focus internally bringing a great depth of awareness, clarity, and internal strength. Through the focus on Dristhi (looking point) and correct use of vinyasa (breath and movement), this method guides the practitioner into a deep meditative state. This practice does not favor the physically strong and will not shadow any weak spots in the practitioner. Come any time between the 5:30-9:30 am time frame giving yourself enough time to practice.

 

Led

Ashtanga led classes are not for learning the Ashtanga practice. If you only practice led classes and not Mysore, you will not gain the benefits of this practice. We encourage students who have done at least 3 days of Mysore classes to attend our weekly Led class. Ashtanga led helps to establish the correct rhythm of breath and vinyasa count, when to inhale and when to exhale coordinated with the movement. It is an opportunity to increase both our internal and external strength, our relationship with the traditional lineage, and surrendering to the methods count and pace. Class is done in sanskrit.


EVERY DAY IS A PRACTICE