Guidelines

Practice with awareness and take your time, there is no hurry.

It is highly recommended not to eat at least two hours prior to practice, preferably longer, and also immediately afterwards. If eating or drinking is unavoidable during this time it is best to do so as lightly as possible.

Traditionally on the days of a new and full moon Ashtanga Yoga is not practiced, and women rest during the first three days of menstruation or even longer if desired.

Ashtanga is a deep and powerful practice, for this reason it is highly recommended to develop regularity in your practice. Practicing at irregular intervals can be very upsetting to the natural rhythms of the body and mind. Whatever your commitment is to the practice, be it once per week, three times, up to six, choose practice days and times at regular intervals. Always rest one day each week.

Drink plenty of water. Ashtanga, as with other forms of yoga, stimulates and accelerates the natural detoxification process and water is an essential ingredient.
 

FAQ

What is Ashtanga Yoga?
Please see the introduction to this website.

What is meant by Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga?
Please see the introduction to this website.

I can’t touch my toes, can I still practice yoga?
Yes absolutely! Flexibility is a by-product and not the focus of the yoga practice. The breath and movement of the body is the focus of the practice and this is accessible to all levels of fitness and age.

Is Ashtanga Yoga hard?
If taught with tenderness and in the Mysore style it is no more difficult than your average physical task- walking up a flight of stairs, a short run, cycle, or swim.

Am I too old to practice yoga?
Age is no barrier. My first yoga teacher at 69 years old had an incredibly strong practice, and my mother started practicing at 68 years old.

What do I need to bring?
Wear clothing that will not restrict your movement and you feel comfortable to sweat in. Please bring a yoga mat and a small towel.

What happens in class?
In your first class you will learn the Ashtanga breathing technique- a full, slightly audible nostril breath. Then you will learn the first sequence of breath-movements and repeat these until memorised. Once this becomes stable you will be shown the next set of breath-movements and asked to repeat these… and so on. Gradually and safely day after day, week after week, your practice will grow.

How often should I practice?
Traditionally the practice is done six days a week with additional rest days on the new and full moon, and for women the first three days of menstruation. A consistent moderate practice is better than an intense practice done infrequently.

Can I practice Ashtanga Yoga during pregnancy?
Experienced Ashtanga practitioners can continue their practice with modifications, please ask your teacher for guidance. Pregnant women who are new to the practice are best to attend maternity yoga classes and commence Ashtanga Yoga at the appropriate time for them after giving birth.