Understanding Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga: A Practical Guide for Beginners
Introduction
Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga comes from Mysore, Karnataka, India. Its rich history and inclusive approach make it unique among yoga practices.
What defines Mysore style are its distinct features that create a personal and transformative experience for practitioners. These features include personalized instruction, the Tristhana method, the Counted Method, self-paced practice, regular commitment, and the development of independence. In this article, we’ll explore each of these elements to understand what makes Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga a unique journey of self-discovery and growth.
History
Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga traces its roots to the teachings of Krishnamacharya and Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. Krishnamacharya is often called the “father of modern yoga.” He played a key role in the development of Ashtanga Yoga and emphasized breath control, alignment, and yoga’s therapeutic aspects.
Jois, a student of Krishnamacharya, began teaching in Mysore, India, during the mid-20th century. His method gained recognition for personalized instruction, breath-movement synchronization, and memorization of a set sequence of poses. Over time, Mysore style has spread globally, attracting many practitioners who seek a disciplined and transformative yoga experience.
Hallmarks
Personalized Instruction
In Mysore style, teachers provide one-on-one guidance and adjustments based on each student’s abilities and needs. This personalized attention allows for a deeper understanding of the practice, ensuring that students receive the necessary support to progress safely and effectively. Whether you’re just starting or have years of experience, this approach enhances your learning.
Tristhana Method
The Tristhana method links breath, eye focus, and movement, creating a meditative and flowing practice. Practitioners maintain awareness of their breath while aligning it with specific gaze points and movements. This integration not only enhances the physical practice but also cultivates mindfulness, making it a powerful experience for both body and mind.
Counted Method
The Counted Method adheres to a fixed sequence of Ashtanga poses. Students memorize the series and progress at their own pace without constant external cues. This autonomy helps practitioners become familiar with each pose’s order and form, allowing them to advance gradually through the Ashtanga series confidently.
Self-Paced Practice
Self-Paced Practice grants practitioners the freedom to advance according to their unique needs. Unlike traditional classes, where everyone moves together, this approach allows individuals to tailor their journey. Whether mastering basic poses or refining advanced ones, self-pacing ensures your practice aligns with your current abilities.
Regular Practice
Regular practice is foundational in Mysore style Ashtanga yoga. Consistency and dedication to daily practice are encouraged for gradual improvement. Establishing a routine allows for deeper understanding and benefits that extend beyond physical gains, such as mental clarity and discipline in other life areas.
Independence
Independence is crucial in Mysore style. Practitioners gradually become self-reliant, developing a deep understanding of the Ashtanga series. With personalized instruction and the counted method, students gain confidence to practice autonomously, connecting deeply with their journey.
Lineage and Parampara
The Parampara of Ashtanga Yoga is a lineage-based transmission of teachings tracing back to the ancient sage Vamana Rishi and more recently to Sri T. Krishnamacharya. He passed down this tradition to his disciples, including K. Pattabhi Jois, who popularized Ashtanga Yoga worldwide.
Modern teachers have introduced updates to the traditional Ashtanga practice. These modifications can make the practice more accessible and safer, but they also risk diluting its authenticity. Balancing the preservation of core principles with valuable improvements is essential for Ashtanga Yoga’s evolution.
Conclusion
Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga offers a balanced approach that fosters individual growth, mindfulness, and community. Practitioners find themselves on a journey that nurtures independence and self-awareness. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, embracing these hallmarks can deepen your practice. You can learn more about Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga here.