beginners guide

Embarking on the journey of Ashtanga yoga can be both exciting and challenging, especially for beginners. At our Mysore-style Ashtanga yoga program, we offer a supportive and personalized approach to help beginners lay a strong foundation for their practice.

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Guided Individual Learning: Mysore class is the best way to learn Ashtanga yoga as a beginner.

In this format, beginners typically start with Surynamaskara A, discovering and exploring the three main foundational elements of Vinyasa, the heart and soul of the Ashtanga Yoga method. Developing and paying attention to these three core elements (breath, position, and focus points for resting the mind), and gradually coordinating and deepening their subtle integration is the essence that brings the magic of Ashtanga to life. As students become more comfortable with the practice, they gradually explore additional asanas and sequences, progressing at a pace that suits their individual needs.

In Mysore class, the teacher facilitates the ideal practice for each student, at a pace suitable and appropriate for each student according to their unique condition and abilities. All students receive one-on-one attention from the teacher, allowing for personalised care, and ensuring they feel comfortable and supported every step of the way. 

Commitment to Practice: We encourage beginners to commit to their practice by attending at least three classes per week for the first month. This regularity allows beginners to establish a routine, build strength and flexibility, and deepen their understanding of the practice.

Observation and Preparation: While not required, new students are always welcome to observe a class before joining to get a sense of the Mysore-style practice and the supportive environment. This observation period helps beginners feel more comfortable and prepared when they begin their own practice.

mysore etiquette guide

To honor the tradition, and create a conducive environment for practice, please adhere to the following etiquette guidelines:

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• Patanjali Yoga Shala is dedicated to the practice of Ashtanga yoga as taught by R. Sharath Jois of Mysore, South India. We kindly request that you refrain from engaging in any non-Ashtanga practices while in our shala.

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• Arrival and time management: Please arrive on time for class to respect the schedule and minimize disruptions for others.

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• Trust the teacher's guidance: allow them to determine your progression in the practice. Avoid requesting additional postures. Trust that the teacher is monitoring your progress and will introduce new postures when appropriate.

• Maintain concentration and Drishti (gaze points): Focus on your own practice. Avoid distractions and respect the privacy of others.​​​

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• Communication with the teacher: In a Mysore class, the teacher provides hands-on adjustments to students, aiming to refine alignment, expand awareness, and guide them energetically. These adjustments serve as pathways to deeper understanding and progress in the practice, beyond mere physical correction. If an adjustment feels uncomfortable, it's crucial to communicate with the teacher promptly, ensuring adjustments remain supportive and beneficial. Similarly, if you require help with an asana, don't hesitate to seek assistance. However in general, it’s good not to become over reliant on adjustments from the teacher, or wait too long for an adjustment, as this helps sustain the flow and energy of the practice. In fact, as students advance and grow more independent in their practice, their need and desire for adjustments usually decreases, as they often begin to find them more of a distraction.​

• Embrace your present condition: by minimizing pre-practice stretching and simply showing up as you are. Part of the maturation of our yoga practice is cultivating adaptation, recognizing and respecting the daily fluctuations in our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Whether we're tired, distracted, or lacking motivation, acknowledging these states allows us to strengthen our bond with our practice and ourselves. Trust in the practice's ability to meet you wherever you are on any given day, inviting us to deepen our relationship with our practice and ourselves.

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• Maintain personal hygiene: Prioritize personal cleanliness by arriving with a clean body, attire, and yoga mat. This ensures a hygienic environment for yourself and others.

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• Listen to your body: Respect your body's limitations and practice with mindfulness and compassion. Avoid pushing beyond your capacity to prevent injury and maintain a sustainable practice.

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• Keep the practice area around your mat clean. This ensures a clear and safe environment for all practitioners - and the teacher.

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• Stay hydrated mindfully: Refrain from drinking water or taking water bottles with you into practice, except for if you are pregnant or nursing. In Ashtanga yoga, the practice is designed to generate internal heat and purify the body. Drinking water during practice can disrupt this process and may lead to discomfort or injury. It is important to stay hydrated throughout the day and replenish fluids after practice.​

Thank you for your dedication to your practice and your commitment to the principles of yoga. By adhering to these etiquette guidelines, you contribute to the sanctity of the Mysore practice space and uphold the spirit of Ashtanga yoga.