This ancient and healing system was founded by Sri T. Krishnamacharya and his disciple Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in the 1930's.
Thought of as the most physically demanding of yoga practices it aligns movement with breath creating a flow from one Asana to another (Vinyasa). Attention is placed on the breath (Ujjayi) and Bandhas (internal muscle contraction) and the journey between the asanas rather than focusing on achieving perfect body alignment. Ujjayi breath is characterized by an ocean type sound which resonates in the practitioner's throat and is maintained throughout the practice. This meditative cycle of inhales and exhales, along with Drishti (focused gazing point) provides the practitioner with a calming, mental focal point. Vinyasa and Ujjayi together create internal heat, which leads to purification of the body through increased circulation and sweating. It also helps to calm the chatter of the mind.
astanga self-practice
This is the traditional form of Astanga yoga as taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in Mysore, South India.
Mysore style students learn through the system of a fixed sequence of asana, with emphasis on maintaining a six day a week practice. (Women are asked not to practice during their menstrual cycle and, following in tradition, there is no practice on moon days here at the centre. Please refer to the moon day list below). This class is not "led" as a whole but all instruction is one-on-one within a group setting. This enables students to enter the room any time between 6.30-7am. Finishing times will vary depending on the individuals practice time. Students practice the Astanga sequence at their own pace and the teacher assists each student individually by giving physical adjustments and verbal instruction. Like an orchestra playing from the same music sheet but each with their own instrument. The calming and meditative sound of Ujjayi breath in a silent room allows the student to redirect their attention and to focus on their internal experience.
Beginners are welcome but are asked to commit to a daily practice for one month.
NEW for 2013! Monthly Mysore card, £99 per month for unlimited Mysore self-practice classes. Choose from six classes a week - Monday to Saturday mornings.
Terms and conditions apply:
1. Cards cannot be transferred, extended or refunded in whole or in part.
2. Cards are valid for one calendar month.
3. Cards are valid for Mysore self-practice classes from Monday to Saturday mornings only.
4. Places in class are available on a first come, first served basis.
5. Mysore cards cannot be used for Monday, Thursday and Friday led drop-in classes
moon days 2013
There will be no early morning Self Practice classes on moon days. However, all other Astanga classes will still run on these days.
Full moon : May 25, Jun 23, Jul 22
New moon: May 10, Jun 8, Jul 8
bank holidays
We're closed on Bank Holidays BUT Astanga evening classes may go ahead so always check.
This course is now full - places are available on the Tuesday course. At the end of this course you will receive a 50% discount voucher to redeem against your next Astanga yoga drop-in class.
Courses and workshops can be booked online – just click the button where shown. Drop-in classes cannot be booked online – just pay at the start of the class – no pre-booking required. Concession rates (conc.) must be booked in person at the centre with proof of concession status.
