Ashtanga Yoga

A traditional style popularized in the second half of the 20th century by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. Ashtanga Yoga organizes postures (asanas) into three groups. The primary series (Yoga Chikitsa) aligns and purifies the body, the intermediate series (Nadi Shodana) purifies the nervous system, and the advanced series A, B, C, and D (Sthira Bhaga) integrate strength with the elegance of movement.

Each series has been arranged according to precise guidelines, with students required to complete each level before moving on to the next. Undoubtedly, it is a physically and mentally challenging style that allows for depth, but it also offers the possibility to work more gently at times, always performing the same postures.

Daida Carrillo adjusting a student while practicing Ashtanga Yoga.

During Mysore classes, the teacher will progressively teach the Ashtanga Yoga sequence and ensure that the breath or alignment is correct. There will be verbal cues and hands-on adjustments to help the student understand and gradually deepen in each of the postures. This sequence, initially short, is expanded with new postures as the practitioner is able to synchronize the mind, breath, and movement.

Traditionally, it is practiced 6 days a week (resting on new and full moon days), and once a week students follow the pace set by the teacher in a "guided class" (with Sanskrit numbering). The intention is to remember and clarify the correct vinyasas (breath-coordinated movements). It is an important class to attend once students have reached a certain level in their practice. No new postures are added in this class.

"Anyone can practice. The young can practice. The old can practice. The very elderly can practice. The sick man can practice. Except lazy people; lazy people cannot practice ashtanga yoga." — Sri K. Pattabhi Jois