What is Ashtanga Yoga?

Ashtanga Yoga blends the dynamic breath-based movements of Vinyasa with the timeless philosophy of the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali. It offers a grounded and invigorating path for those seeking physical vitality, mental clarity, and spiritual depth while remaining engaged in everyday life. The Mysore tradition of Ashtanga Yoga is a householder lineage that supports spiritual aspiration alongside the complexities of family, work, and community. It invites steady transformation through daily practice, rather than withdrawal from the world.

What is the Mysore Tradition?

Developed in the 20th century by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in Mysore, India, this tradition is rooted in the Vinyasa method taught by his teacher, Sri T. Krishnamacharya. At its core is the principle of tristhāna (three dwelling places). These are 1) mind or gaze-focus; 2) body or posture and energy; and 3) breath or spirit-soul. Together, these bring the practitioner into a state of focused awareness. Ashtanga Yoga follows progressive series of postures, beginning with the Primary Series known as Yoga Chikitsa, or yoga therapy. Each student moves at their own pace, learning one posture at a time with individualized guidance. The goal is not to complete all the sequences, but to cultivate presence, humility, and inner strength.

Mysore-style classes are the heart of this approach. Unlike led classes, students move through their memorized sequence at their own rhythm, receiving personal support from the teacher. The room is quiet, steady, and filled with focused energy. It is not about performing, but about showing up and letting the breath carry the practice forward one movement at a time.

What is its Ancient Philosophy?

The Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali offer a profound spiritual framework that transcends religion and emphasizes direct experience. Composed over two millennia ago, the sutras draw from an oral tradition that threads teachings on ethics, discipline, breath, and meditation into a path of self-realization. The eight limbs of yoga (yama, niyama, asana, prāṇāyāma, pratyāhāra, dhāraṇā, dhyāna, and samādhi) provide structure without rigidity, inviting reflection and transformation through practice.

These teachings help us cultivate discernment and presence while honoring each person’s unique relationship with the sacred. As Krishnamacharya taught, the path is like walking up a hill toward a temple, every step holds meaning, and the view expands with patience and devotion.

Who is it for?

Some people practice yoga postures without the philosophy. Some study yoga philosophy without the practice. Ashtanga invites both. This is a method for anyone seeking meaningful transformation through practical and philosophical structure, discipline, and self-inquiry.

You don’t need to be flexible or strong to begin. You only need a willingness to learn, to go slow, and to meet yourself honestly on the mat. In Mysore class, there is no rush and no competition. You are guided, step by step, to develop a practice that is both deeply personal and profoundly universal.

If you are ready to listen inward, breathe with intention, and walk a path that honors ancient wisdom in the context of modern life, you are already on the way.