Menu
Ashtanga yoga is a dynamic and structured style that combines breath with a series of flowing poses. It emphasises physical postures, synchronising movement and breath, to improve flexibility, strength, and focus. It follows a set sequence, progressing as you master each pose. Regular practice promotes both physical and mental well-being.
See below for Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga.
Ashtanga yoga can be great for beginners because it follows a set sequence of poses, which helps establish a routine and build familiarity. The structured nature of the practice makes it easier to track progress and see improvements over time. Additionally, the focus on breath and movement can help newcomers develop mindfulness and relaxation skills. The sessions at AYD allow you to start at your own pace and gradually work up to more advanced poses.
What is Mysore Style?
A Mysore-style Ashtanga Yoga class is a personalised self-practice session. In these classes, all students follow the same sequence of postures, but the practice is customised to each individual’s level and needs. Guided and supported by myself, students work through their practice at their own pace.
I will offer personalised guidance, suggesting ways to approach the postures that best suit the student’s needs.
I will also advise on how much of the sequence to practice for maximum benefit and when it’s appropriate to move on to the next posture(s).
The Practice
In Ashtanga Yoga, students follow a set sequence of postures that progressively increase in complexity and intensity. Each posture serves as a foundation for the next, building on what has come before.
Regardless of experience, the format remains consistent. The practice begins with Surya Namaskar A & B (sun salutations), which establish the foundation by setting the rhythm and breath while introducing key elements that support the entire practice.
The standing postures help cultivate grounding, balance, strength, and flexibility.
In the Primary Series, the seated postures further enhance flexibility, strength, technique, and confidence. The focus here is on externally rotating the hips, increasing awareness of pelvic movement, creating space in the back of the body, and developing shoulder stability and mobility, all in preparation for the demands of backbending.
As you progress, you also begin to recognize and release habitual movement patterns, allowing for deeper work in pranayama (breath control), meditation, and the more advanced postures of Ashtanga’s later series.
Finally, the finishing postures help to calm and steady your nervous system after the physical exertion, preparing both body and mind for deep relaxation at the end of your practice