Ashtanga Yoga Mysore StyleAshtanga Yoga Mysore Style Classes and Ashtanga Yoga Led Classes are the two types of classes found in the Ashtanga Yoga of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. Ashtanga Yoga Mysore Style The modern practice of Ashtanga Yoga came from a Yoga Teacher named Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (Guruji), who lived in Mysore, South India. 
Sri K. Pattabhi Jois
always taught people according to their individual abilities and personality. His approach would differ with each student based on their age, physical and mental condition, and overall aptitude or needs. He appeared to assess people on an energetic level, and give teachings directly necessary for their personal growth. The Mysore method of teaching and practice is very effective, and Guruji's power continues to be transmitted through a specific group of his students who have received his blessing to teach. Students must be taught progressively according to their ability. As in many things, more is not necessarily better or appropriate. With each successive practice, a student begins to develop mastery over the breath and the asanas (postures) in the sequence. When the teacher feels that a student is ready to advance further in his or her personal practice, new teachings are given. The "Ashtanga Yoga Mysore Style" is the traditional teaching method used by Pattabhi Jois. It is named after the city of Mysore where he lived and taught for over 70 years. Ashtanga Yoga Led Classes Led classes or guided classes are part of the current teaching method at the K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute (KPJAYI) in Mysore. The "Led Class" was primarily taught by Pattabhi Jois when he was leading large groups of students outside of Mysore. When on International Teaching Tours, Guruji or Sharath will guide hundreds of students simultaneously through the traditional sequence of postures in the Primary Series. In Mysore, led Primary Series classes are conducted on Fridays and Sundays. There is also a guided Intermediate Series class on Sunday, for those students who practice the second sequence of postures. Led classes are beneficial to the student in a number of ways: 
First, the student learns the correct vinyasa. Vinyasa simply means "breathing-movement system." In the Ashtanga Yoga sequence, it is important to connect one breath with one movement. The full expression of one breath is linked to the full expression of a movement. The correct vinyasa takes some time to grasp, and is only mastered through regular practice. A led class can correct any errors that may have crept into a student's practice. The second benefit of the led class is to foster determination and stamina in conjunction with elegant surrender to the instructions of the teacher. This combination of inner strength and soft submission create a dynamic feeling of peace and experiential awareness within in the student. Return from Ashtanga Yoga Mysore to AYVic Homepage
|
