Mysore Practice for All Levels
Most yoga classes are group classes, full of students with all different levels of experience, strength, and flexibility. An instructor leads the class through a series of poses and everyone works on the same poses at the same time. Often, such classes can be too fast or too challenging for beginners and, at the same time, they can be quite easy for advanced students. In Mysore style classes, students learn and practice Ashtanga Yoga at their own pace. Everyone in the room is practicing Ashtanga Yoga, but they each are working on different parts of the series. For example, beginners may be working on the sun salutations and basic standing poses, while advanced students may be working on backbends and handstands. Everyone is challenged, without being overwhelmed. The instructor works with each student individually and students can spend extra time working on the things that are particularly challenging to them. New poses and transitions are added as flexibility and strength develop, so the practice is always changing and growing. Mysore style Ashtanga Yoga is the only yoga class that truly works for students of all levels.
While it works for all levels, Mysore style classes are most appealing to people who are willing to commit to a regular practice. Because students have to memorize the practice, Mysore classes require a deeper level of commitment than other classes. Students find it easier to remember the order of the poses and the correct breathing if they have a consistent, or almost daily, practice. They also progress more quickly through the series. If you are willing to make the commitment, Mysore style Ashtanga classes will be a fantastic experience. You'll get a fabulous workout while learning a complete system of yoga. Plus, you’ll practice in a group setting of which is always fun and full of energy.
Mysore style classes are modeled after the way that Ashtanga has been traditionally taught by the guru of Ashtanga Yoga, Pattabhi Jois, in Mysore, India. At the Yoga Shack, we combine this traditional practice in a modern setting with modern music.