Practicing Mysore-style ashtanga yoga is an effective and personalized method that brings physical strength, flexibility, and inner calm. The continuous progress it offers, along with the teacher-student relationship, provides an opportunity for deeper understanding and personal growth.
Asanas: The Foundations of Ashtanga Yoga
The ashtanga yoga is an eight-limbed system aimed at achieving the unity of body, mind, and soul. The path can be long and challenging, and it begins with the practice of asanas. Through the practice of these specific postures, we can develop a strong and flexible body, which serves as a foundation for progressing further within the Ashtanga yoga system. While asana practice represents only a small part of the entire system, it is a crucial and indispensable step for the "modern" Western individual, who, due to their lifestyle, often neglects their physical body.
The unique feature of ashtanga vinyasa yoga is that through the practice of asanas, we not only work on healing the physical body but also prepare for several higher-level limbs, such as pranayama, concentration, and meditative states of consciousness.
Mysore-style
In ashtanga vinyasa yoga, the asanas are traditionally taught in Mysore-style (pronounced: my-sore). This method combines the benefits of group-led classes and individual practice. Its essence lies in the fact that all practitioners in the room perform the sequence independently, following the rhythm of their own breath. This allows the teacher to provide personalized adjustments and instructions to everyone without disrupting the flow of the session. As a result, it is perfectly fine if someone practices for a shorter time (e.g., beginners) or spends a longer time in the room (e.g., advanced practitioners) during the same class.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Mysore-style ashtanga practice is named after the South Indian city of Mysore. Pattabhi Jois developed the modern ashtanga yoga system here at the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute, founded in 1948.
The Ideal Time for Asana Practice
The practice time is fixed, with Mysore classes traditionally held in the morning. This is because the Brahma muhurta period, which is the hour and a half before sunrise or as close to it as possible, is most suitable for yoga practice. During this time, the air is fresh, the environment is quiet, and we wake up refreshed, not yet burdened by the impressions of a demanding workday. The mind can focus more easily and wanders less. The body is clean, the stomach empty, making conditions ideal for practice. Initially, the body may feel less flexible in the morning hours, but it quickly adapts to the new routine
Principles of Regular Practice
This traditional Mysore teaching method involves regular practice, with a goal of practicing six times a week; however, most practitioners achieve this gradually or practice less frequently. Saturdays and moon days (full and new moon) are rest days, as well as the first three to five days of menstruation for women. While this may seem challenging at first, gradual progression is an essential element for undisturbed development in yoga. The teacher monitors students' progress, and when a student is ready, they receive new asanas to add to their practice.
Characteristics of Mysore practice
Personal attention
Since everyone practices at their own pace, the teacher has time to give individual attention to each student.
Individual growth
Students progress at their own pace with the guidance of the teacher, based on the effort and energy invested.
Independence
Mysore-style allows practitioners to learn the series and practice independently.
Meditation
The synchronization of breath and movement requires deep concentration, leading to a meditative state.
TRADITION
Hungary's oldest
Ashtanga Mysore program
With the blessing of
Paramaguru
Sharath Jois
The structure and elements of the Mysore program
MYSORE PRACTICE
5 times a week
LED CLASS
Once a week
CONFERENCE
Once a month
REST DAYS
Saturdays and Moon days
ASTANGA COMMUNITY
24/7
Discipline and Blessing: The Path of Ashtanga Yoga
It is clear that this practice requires great commitment and serious discipline. However, within this framework, ashtanga vinyasa yoga is able to fully manifest its blessed effects. In addition to practitioners automatically switching to a healthier lifestyle (light meals, early bedtimes and rising, regular life rhythm) to maintain the practice, the mind also gradually transforms. Mysore practice almost forces us to be honest with ourselves, confronts us with our faults that pose obstacles on the spiritual path, and serves as a tool to overcome them.
The leader of the Mysore program
If you would like to join, you can do so through the Application for the Mysore Program page. Please wait for our response before coming to your first Mysore class. Useful information can be found under the first time valamint house rules menu items.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! The Mysore style is the best way to start practicing ashtanga yoga. In Mysore practice, everyone gets personalized, individual instruction, yet it's all in a group setting. Every new practitioner first learns a very simple sequence, which we call Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutation in English. This is followed by a few seated poses, and the series ends with relaxation. The first practice lasts about 30-45 minutes. Later, the duration of your practice will increase at a pace that's right for you. The teacher will monitor your progress, and as you're ready, you'll receive more asanas (poses), added to the previous ones.
You're never too old to start practicing ashtanga! The Mysore style ashtanga practice is based on a unique - personalized - method that can be adapted to every age group and level of fitness and health.
No. It's completely fine if you join without knowing the sequence. (See our answer above for beginners.) If you have learned the sequence before but have since forgotten it, we will go through the practice sequence of the length suggested by the instructor, and we will repeat the individual asanas (yoga poses) as long as necessary for you to remember them.
According to the tradition of ashtanga, we practice six days a week. This may seem like a serious commitment at first. We suggest that you start with something achievable for you and stick to it. For example, practicing two or three days a week can be a good starting point. Over time, you can gradually add more days to your practice. If you're short on time, you can also do a few sun salutations at home. The key is stable practice, so short but regular practice is always better than longer, but irregular practice.
Of course. It's everyone's personal choice whether they want to receive adjustments or not. If you're new to the program, we'll discuss your preference, and you can change your mind later without any explanation. If you feel any pain or discomfort during an adjustment, immediately inform the instructor.
We usually advise that you continue practicing, with modifications appropriate for your injury. Continuous movement maintains blood flow and helps in healing. If you have any injuries, always inform the teacher!