Ashtanga Yoga Narayani

What is Ashtanga Yoga?

Ashtanga Yoga* is a daily method of yoga involving synchronizing the breath with a progressive series of postures. This process produces intense internal heat and a purifying sweat that detoxifies muscles and organs. The results are improved circulation, a light and strong body and a calm mind.

Ashtanga is traditionally taught in the “Mysore” style: a supervised self-practice. The same series of asanas (poses) are practiced each day. New poses are introduced by the teacher once the student memorizes and becomes proficient in the previous asanas in the sequence. People of all ages and health can practice Ashtanga. A student works with the teacher to advance at their own rate.Source: Ashtanga Yoga Nilayam

*The term “Ashtanga Yoga” originally comes from the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, a series of succinct phrases encapsulating 8 limbs of yoga practice transcribed from a pre-existent oral teaching over 5,000 years old. The Mysore-style Ashtanga practice accesses the state of yoga through the tristhana method: breath, posture, & gaze. The 8 limbs are: Yama (practices), Niyama (observances), Asana (postures/seat), Pranayama (breath), Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses), Dharana (focus), Dhyana (single-pointed concentration), Samadhi (freedom).

What can I expect in my first class?

New students will start with the foundations: Breath, Drishti and Asana. Each posture is taught to you gradually, methodically, and at your own pace. You’ll be provided materials to review and integrate what was learned each day so that you can feel prepared to build upon and progress through your practice. We begin with Surya Namaskar A + B, and gradually through each of the standing asanas. Once these foundations are established, you will be instructed through each posture of the primary series (yoga chikitsa). Your initial practice will be around 45 minutes-1 hour. Visit this page for more information for new students.

What are moon days?

As the moon cycles, its gravitational pull affects the tides, the movement of water within the earth, plants, organisms, and within our bodies. This affect is especially noticeable on new and full moon days, and practitioners are advised to take these days off to rest. Mysore practice will take a pause on these days, but keep a eye on the shala schedule to participate in community moon day events.

I have an injury or pre-existing condition, can I practice yoga?

The method taught at Ashtanga Narayani is tailored to individuals of all ages and life experiences. That being said, please let me know if you have any conditions, injuries, or concerns so we can mindfully consider them in your daily sadhana. I also ask that you listen carefully and compassionately to your body. Moving carefully with each breath gives us access to the deep healing qualities of the practice. I encourage you to step into this opportunity and will be honored to meet you wherever you are.

Should I expect physical adjustments?

I honor an agreement of mutual respect and equality within the shala and strive to create a safe container for each individual’s practice, careful to offer physical assistance with consent, and after respectful and careful observation of each individual’s practice. I encourage everyone to communicate with me on days or in situations where physical touch is unwanted. If you have any physical injuries or history that you feel I should be aware of to better support you and your practice, please communicate with me in the shala or contact me here if you need to reach me outside of class.

Can I practice on my menstrual cycle?

With regular practice, this system of yoga actively pulls the body’s energy upward, reversing the downward flowing energy of apana vayu. This being the case, menstruating practitioners are advised to rest from practice for the first 3 days of their cycle to allow apana to naturally flow downward so as to maximize the healing and restorative benefits of this time in their cycle. 

I’d like to hold an event, workshop or ongoing class in your space.

The shala is open to collaborations and accepts proposals. Contact me here to discuss.