About Mysore Style
This is Yoga in its traditional form, where the practice is shared directly from teacher to student. Each student is addressed individually and shown each pose gradually, one at a time.
All levels of student practice in the same environment, from beginners to advanced students, all together in a supportive group environment. The teacher works directly with each to determine the best sequence of poses, to develop a flowing, consistent and established yoga practice.
It is surprisingly fast to learn if you come consistently.
The teacher is your expert guide
In Mysore style classes you have free dialogue with the teacher. Feel free at any point to ask questions. The practice changes over time as we develop, and it’s inevitable that we will need to adjust for injuries, energy levels, and the regular to-and-fro of daily life. Our qualified teachers will assist you, with respect and privacy, as much as needed.
You learn the sequence gradually
In a Mysore style class you gradually learn the a sequence of postures over time at a pace that is suitable for you. You are at all times under the guidance of an experienced teacher who gives individual instruction and adjustments, specific to your needs. It is akin to personal training for yoga – you receive individual one on one attention in a group environment.
Everyone practices according to their ability on the day
Beginners start with a shorter practice that evolves into a longer practice as they gain strength and flexibility. Be patient and remember that a regular, consistent practice, at least 2-3 times a week to start, is recommended to learn the posture sequence, and see the many benefits to mind and body accrue.
If you feel tired, that’s okay. If you feel full of energy, that’s great too. If you need to ask questions – fantastic! In the West, we are accustomed to doing everything at full power, and this can happen in yoga sometimes. The downside is that this approach can be unpleasant or even increase the risk of injury.
The advantage of Mysore style is you move at a pace that feels right for you on the day.
Embrace being a beginner again
When is the last time you really felt like a newbie? Ironically, Mysore style is often the most confronting for people who have done lots of gym-style “led” yoga classes.
But there is nothing to be anxious about – just embrace being a beginner.
It’s such a relief to be a beginner again! Allow yourself to indulge in a fresh start. Mysore style classes are an opportunity to be taught new techniques from the ground up.
If you stay a while and observe the energy in the room, you start to notice a pattern emerging. Everyone seems to be on a path, following a precise choreography with an individual flair.
Compared to other yoga classes, the silence is striking. Occasionally the teacher will whisper something to a student, but the dominant sound is the collective breath. You’ll notice the teacher move swiftly from student to student, giving adjustments as appropriate.