Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga
The elegant practice of Ashtanga yoga consists of a series of yoga poses (asanas) done independently by each practitioner in a prescribed sequence.
An essential element of this practice is the central importance of breathing, which helps stoke internal heat to cleanse impurities and strengthen focus.
The sequence is designed to gradually increase flexibility, balanced with strength. The value of the practice is in the deep inner transformation it enables.
Breath, gaze (drishti) and subtle energy locks (bandha) are observed to help focus and refine asana practice, ultimately leading towards the subtler aspects of yoga’s eight limbs.
Mysore Style Class Description
Students learn the sequence pose by pose from the teacher, progressing as flexibility, strength, focus are developed. Practice begins with sun salutations and continues through the standing sequence, followed by primary or more advanced series of asanas. Each student works independently and may be at a different place in the sequence from others in the room at any time. Adjustments and guidance are offered by the teacher.
This method differs significantly from many yoga classes that are led by verbal cues from the teacher to the group. Mysore yoga offers independent practice in a group setting.
Each class begins with a prayer chanted together at the posted start time. Anyone arriving after the prayer is complete is encouraged to chant silently before beginning practice.
All levels of ability and experience are welcome in the Mission Ashtanga community.
