Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga yoga is an advanced and challenging form of hatha yoga primarily introduced to the west by Sri K Pattabhi Jois. The practice consists of vinyasa, connective movement that together with smooth, deep breathing (ujjayi), gaze (dristi) and locks (bandhas) create heat in the body that burns off toxins and poisons that we carry with us. This powerful and vigorous practice purifies and realigns the body, cultivates a feeling of inner peace, and is at its essense a meditation in motion.
Mysore Style Ashtanga
Mysore-style means each student is taught one-to-one, at your own pace, in a group setting. Students learn the progressive Ashtanga sequence as it is appropriate for their individual needs and abilities. Mysore-style is different from the usual way in which yoga are taught in that:
• the class is silent
• students practice their own sequence
of asana at their own pace
• the teacher assists by giving physical adjustments and one-on-one feedback.
Mysore style has students learn postures in a fixed order using a special movement-breathing technique called vinyasa. The vinyasa links the postures together in the dance of breath and movement.
Each student is given their practice according to their ability. Since each posture is designed to prepare for the rest of the series, beginners tend to have a much shorter practice than more experienced students. As the student gains strength, stamina, flexibility and concentration, additional postures are given. The sense of the word "given" in this context comes from how the practice is taught in India, where a yoga practice is something that a teacher gives to a student as a spiritual practice.
