Intro to Ashtanga Yoga
- Duration
- 60 min
- Heat
- Regular room
- Level
- All levels
- Ages
- All ages
About This Class
Intro to Ashtanga Yoga is a 60-minute introduction to the Ashtanga Primary Series: the fixed, structured sequence at the heart of Ashtanga yoga and one of the great yoga Chikitsas, healing practices aimed at bringing the body back into balance.
This intro strips the intensity back. Instead of pushing through the full series, we build a foundation - the blueprint postures, one by one - so you understand how the pieces fit together and can build a home practice with confidence.
Expect steady Ujjayi breathing through the whole class, alignment cues you can actually remember, and modifications for every body. No previous Ashtanga experience is needed.
What to Expect
- A fixed sequence: the Primary Series is structured and repeatable, so you learn the same sequence week after week until it becomes second nature.
- The blueprint postures: this intro covers the essential postures one at a time - alignment, breath and transitions - instead of rushing the full series.
- Steady Ujjayi breath: the audible breathing technique anchors the practice and links breath, movement and attention.
- Modifications welcome: every posture has options, so stiff joints, limited mobility and complete beginners are all fine.
What to Bring
- Your mat is included.
- Wear comfortable clothing you can move in - the room is not heated.
- Arrive 15 minutes early on your first visit; classes are walk-in, no booking needed.
Common Questions
Is this really Ashtanga yoga?
Yes - the Primary Series, exactly as it is traditionally structured. The intro simply slows it down and builds the foundation first.
I have never done Ashtanga. Is this the right class?
That is exactly what it is for. No experience needed, and every posture is offered with modifications.
What is Ujjayi breathing?
The audible ocean breath used throughout Ashtanga: soft in and out through the nose with a gentle constriction at the back of the throat. It keeps breath, movement and focus connected.
Should I already know the sequence?
No. You learn the blueprint postures one by one, which is the foundation for everything else in the series.