Adam Keen – Ashtanga Weekend London 

June 22nd and 23rd, 2024

Ashtanga yoga has a traditional aspect in its repetition of a set sequence of postures done in a certain way. But, in seeming contrast, Mysore style yoga, another name for Ashtanga, was used to denote an approach to a practice that is person-centred and adapted to the individual.

So, come and see how we can do them both; be part of something deeper than just bodily movement, a tradition and a perspective on life and living, whilst preserving our autonomy to move in a way that is comfortable, nurturing and effective for progress.

SATURDAY, JUNE 22

 7.00 – 10.00 am: Mysore Self Practice

Adam teaches traditionally as he learned and experienced it in Mysore, defined by subtle, inner techniques. Following the sequences as they are in Mysore, adaptations will be given to keep you moving forward.

Practitioners will be approached individually and offered a gentle and holistic approach to physical assistance (if you want that).  All are welcome to the Mysore class, there is no problem if you need practice sheets to follow along with, or Theresa might be able to help you. There will be 2 start times and we will contact you about yours.

10.30 – 12:00 The Work Inside the Posture

In this class, we will look at how to use the breath and bandha to work within the postures rather than focusing only on the exterior shape.  These techniques are applicable to all asanas from primary series to advanced and when you know them, not only will you find progress easier, but you will find your daily practice is much more interesting.

 13.00 – 14.30 Open Your Hips & Protect Your Knees

The hips are the foundation of the yoga practice, without exaggeration, every asana targets them. However, in terms of opening the hips, it’s not the as we think of them as being in the front for doing lotus or getting knees to the floor in badha konasana.

It is actually the back of the hips we are looking to work with. In other words, the sacrum area. This is more subtle than the external rotation of the hip joint. In this workshop we will look carefully at the effective work to be found here, whether your challenge is lotus, marichyasana D or leg(s) behind head, you will find a new approach to solving your personal challenge. 

SUNDAY, JUNE 23

 7.00 – 10.00 am: Mysore Self Practice

As above

10:30 – 12.00 Arm Balances & Inversions

From the basic principles of how to balance on your arms, we will build up to headstands – and for some handstands – learning how to do this in a way that is not only strong but safe and sustainable. Suitable for all levels.

12.30 – 13.30 Practice chat + Q&A
We will discuss together the roots of modern asana and then how this relates and intertwines with the roots of Ashtanga yoga. Then, how the tradition of Ashtanga yoga has evolved to get to where it has today.

Location:

This year we will be at Cecil Sharp House, The English Folk Dance & Song Society, a 10 minute walk from Camden Town tube station. 

Cost for the weekend: €160 

BOOK NOW

Priority will be given to those who attend the whole weekend, please contact us if you wish to go on a wait list for single sessions. This weekend sold out last year with a long waiting list, if you would like to ensure your space please book early.

Adam Keen

Adam is one of only a few students to have completed the Advanced A series in Mysore with Sharathji. He received Level 2 Authorisation in 2012 and has taught Ashtanga yoga for almost 25 years.

Equally at home teaching all levels, he gives all students attention and interest. He is democratic in his approach and kind and believes that the practice should not feel like a test. Coming from an academic background in philosophy and a professional one as a chef, he is knowledgeable, practical, and relatable in his approach. Many consider him humorous too.

Adam and his wife Theresa run the online yoga platform Keen on Yoga and he hosts the Keen on Yoga Podcast & YouTube channel, interviewing many of the world’s most renowned Ashtanga teachers and philosophical academics.

Instagram: @adam_keen_ashtanga & @keen_on_yoga