People are drawn to Ashtanga yoga due to its traditional nature, but there are often Ashtanga frequently asked questions, a list is below.
WHAT IS MYSORE STYLE YOGA?
Mysore style refers to Ashtanga yoga as it has been traditionally taught in Mysore, South-India, the birthplace of all modern yoga styles. Currently the main centre of study is with at the Sharath Yoga Centre.
Students learn and follow the set sequence of postures which always start with sun salutations, followed by standing postures, seated postures and closing.
Each student is helped at their own level and speed, by the teacher individually while everyone practices at their own pace in the same room.
CAN I START AS A BEGINNER?
Yes, Mysore style is an ideal way to learn yoga for beginners. If you can familiarise yourself with at least the sun salutations in the Ashtanga style before you come, you will have a head start and a look at the standing postures would help you on your way quicker too.
DO I HAVE TO KNOW THE FULL SEQUENCE ALREADY?
No. Adam will add your postures one by one, but try and have an idea of at least the sun-salutations and standing postures so you can move more smoothly through learning the sequence.
WHAT ABOUT INJURIES?
Inform Adam on arrival and you will be shown modifications to progress you safely and heal your injuries.
WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE AND HOW LONG DOES THE CLASS LAST?
As a beginner to Mysore yoga allow for 45 minutes altogether including rest. The space is open at 6 and we finish by 9am. Arrive anytime between. As you become more advanced and learn more of the sequence you should allow for up to 90 minutes.
DO I NEED MY OWN MAT?
There are mats provided at the studio but we always recommend that you invest in a good quality mat if you become a regular student.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Most women wear leggings or shorts and a vest top or t-shirt, you wont be going upside down as a beginner but you don’t want your top falling up if you do. Men wear shorts and vest or t-shirt. Prepare to sweat!
SHOULD I EAT BREAKFAST BEFORE?
No. Look forward to your breakfast after. There is a café within the studio. Eating before will cause you to feel sick as some of the movements are quite strenuous. However, upon waking in the morning a small piece of fruit or a couple of nuts, along with a tea/coffee would be fine.
HOW MUCH WATER SHOULD I DRINK?
A glass half and hour before class is fine. Not more, as again, it will make you feel sick when practicing. Do not bring water into the class as drinking as you go is not good for you. Wait fifteen minutes before drinking afterwards, then drink a good amount to re-hydrate; you will sweat a lot.
HOW REGULARLY SHOULD I ATTEND CLASS?
As many times a week as you can, but set-yourself a realistic benchmark. Classes run 5 days a week Monday to Friday. Ideally, you would attend every day, but to start off with, at least try and come a minimum of 2 times in a week.
ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD KNOW/DO BEFORE ARRIVING?
Shower before arrival, as it’s an intimate setting and you don’t want to be the smelly one as you start to sweat. Wash your mat and your clothes regularly too (I’m sure you do already). There are showers at the centre and towels are also provided for a well-deserved shower after and before work too!
Change outside the room and only bring your valuables in with you. There is storage for clothes outside.
You can arrange payment with reception on leaving. Only sign your name on the table to the left of the door when you come in so we have a record of your attendance.
Don’t faff. This is not the army, but when you come in, just quietly roll your mat out and start your sun-salutations. There is no need to sit and meditate first, practice other warm-up stretches.
We hope this list of Ashtanga yoga frequently asked questions has been helpful, if there is anything else we need to cover please contact us and let us know.