ashtanga at the shala

Ashtanga Yoga is a specific method of yoga well-suited to students of all ages, skill levels, and states of health. Ashtanga follows a set sequence of postures that is distinct from vinyasa-style classes. Ashtanga Yoga is taught at The Shala in the lineage of Pattabhi Jois, Sharath Jois, and Saraswati Jois. We welcome everyone, from long-time practitioners to those brand new to the yoga method. Those new to Mysore Ashtanga should email info@theshala.com prior to attending their first class. Beginners should be aware that learning Ashtanga properly requires time, patience, and regularity.

MYSORE ASHTANGA | ALL LEVELS

A traditional, personalized, and progressive approach to yoga, Mysore Ashtanga is a set sequence learned and memorized over time with the guidance of a teacher and with respect to the practitioner’s abilities and requirements. Mysore Ashtanga is well-suited to students of all ages and skill levels. We welcome everyone, from long-time practitioners to those brand new to the yoga method. 

What to expect and consider before starting this practice: 

  • Mysore Ashtanga is a practice distinct from vinyasa-style classes and is taught very differently. It requires time, patience, and regularity to memorize and build upon this set sequence. For this reason, we strongly recommend initiating a Mysore Ashtanga practice when you have 3-4 weeks where you can attend Mysore sessions at least three times a week. 
  • Students new to Mysore Ashtanga, should expect the practice time to be approximately 40 minutes to start. An instructor will lead you through the beginning of the primary series and the closing postures. Over time, the length of your practice will increase to approximately 60-90 minutes, but you can always make adjustments according to your schedule. 
  • Those new to Mysore Ashtanga should email info@theshala.com with any questions prior to attending their first class.  

ASHTANGA HALF PRIMARY | ALL LEVELS

The first half of this class follows the Ashtanga Primary Series sequence up through Navasana (Boat Pose). The second half consists of backbends, finishing postures, and savasana. Vinyasa students are welcome. Familiarity with Ashtanga preferred but not required.

ASHTANGA SHORT FORM | ALL LEVELS 

Based on a set sequence of postures from Ashtanga Primary and Intermediate series. We will practice two types of sun salutations, standing postures, a combination of postures from the Ashtanga Primary and Intermediate series, and finishing postures. It is suitable for all levels, including those who are interested in an abbreviated practice or those who are looking to develop a regular daily routine. Vinyasa students are welcome. No Ashtanga experience necessary.

ASHTANGA LED PRIMARY | LEVEL 2-3

Students are guided through the full Ashtanga Primary Series to the cadence of the traditional Sanskrit count. Suitable for intermediate and advanced students. Vinyasa students are welcome.

Moon Days 2024
(no Mysore practice on new and full moon)

January

1/11 – new

1/25 – full

February

2/9 – new

2/24 – full

March

3/10 – new

3/25 – full

April

4/8 – new

4/23 – full

May

5/7 – new

5/23 – full

June

6/6 – new

6/21 – full

July

7/5 – new

7/21 – full

August

8/4 – new

8/19 – full

September

9/2 – new

9/17 – full

October

10/2 – new

10/17 – full

November

11/1 – new

11/15 – full

11/30 – new

December

12/15 – full

12/30 – new