Complete beginners are always welcome at Ashtanga Yoga Kreuzberg. If you're new to the concept of a Mysore self-practice class, we encourage you to come and observe first. This allows you to meet your teachers, understand the dynamics of the class, and ask any questions you might have before deciding if it's right for you.
Embarking on Ashtanga yoga through a Mysore self-practice class offers an ideal starting point. The individualized instruction within a group setting ensures a tailored approach, providing personal attention at your own pace - an approach we find to be the most effective and secure way to introduce practitioners to the method.
Beginners need not be familiar with the entire Asthanga yoga sequence before starting. We teach the poses systematically, guiding you through each one, facilitating memorization as you progress. If you are inspired to begin your Asthanga yoga journey, simply choose your preferred day, and reach out to us to let us know that you are interested in joining our class.
Mysore self-practice classes embrace students of various abilities and experiences, creating an inclusive environment where beginners are always encouraged to join.
In your first classes, you'll be introduced to sun salutations, proper breathing techniques, and the concept of bandhas. The initial lesson, lasting around 30 minutes, involves repetition, providing a comprehensive introduction for newcomers. Subsequent classes will progressively introduce new postures, building a sequence that becomes familiar and manageable without extensive guidance. In keeping with the traditional teaching style, we often provide physical, hands-on adjustments. While we strive to ensure these adjustments are beneficial and safe, we understand that some individuals may prefer not to receive them. We respect your autonomy and encourage you to decline adjustments at any time without the need for explanation.
To facilitate progress, we recommend a commitment of at least three classes per week at a consistent time. While the initial class duration is typically 30-45 minutes, we remain flexible to accommodate varying needs and schedules. Your first class starts at 07:45 am. By then the Shala is already running and we have enough time to teach you properly.
Yoga embodies a life philosophy, offering the potential to foster a vibrant state of health for both the body and mind. When practiced in its proper sequence, Ashtanga yoga guides individuals on a journey to rediscover their fullest potential across various levels of human consciousness: physical, psychological, and spiritual. Through the correct execution of breathing techniques, postures (asanas), and focus points (dristi), practitioners gain control over their senses and cultivate a profound self-awareness. Consistent and devoted adherence to this discipline leads to a sense of stability in both body and mind.
The term "Ashtanga" stems from the eight-fold approach to yoga philosophy, denoting the eight limbs described by Patanjali: Yama (abstinences), Niyama (observances), Asana (postures), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (sense withdrawal), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (contemplation). These limbs complement one another, with asana practice serving as a foundation for pranayama and playing a pivotal role in the development of the yamas and niyamas. As the externally oriented limbs are firmly established, the internally oriented ones naturally evolve over time.
The term "Vinyasa" refers to the synchronization of breath and movement. The breath is the core of this practice, connecting one asana to another in a precise order. By aligning movement with breath and incorporating mula and uddiyana bandhas (locks), practitioners generate intense internal heat. This heat purifies muscles and organs, eliminating toxins and releasing beneficial hormones and minerals. The breath regulates the vinyasa, ensuring efficient blood circulation and resulting in a light and strong body.
The Ashtanga system comprises three groups of sequences: the Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa), which detoxifies and aligns the body; the Intermediate Series (Nadi Shodhana), which purifies the nervous system; and the Advanced Series A, B, C, and D (Sthira Bhaga), which integrate strength and grace, demanding higher levels of flexibility and humility. Each sequence must be fully mastered before progressing to the next, and meticulous adherence to the sequential order of asanas is crucial. Every posture serves as preparation for the subsequent one, building the strength and balance necessary for advancement.
The breath becomes the driving force behind movement and postures, emphasising the continuity of deep, even breathing. In the Ashtanga yoga tradition, effort is considered essential for gaining benefits. Strength, stamina, and perspiration are distinctive elements of this traditional practice, challenging common Western perceptions of yoga. This discipline demands significant effort, tapping into and circulating vital energy throughout the body, thereby strengthening and purifying the nervous system. As a result, the mind attains clarity, lucidity, and precision, allowing individuals to perceive the divine essence in every aspect of life.
