Mysore-Style Classes

I practice Ashtanga yoga and want to become an instructor. Since I
just moved to San Jose, I immediately sought a good instructor,
especially one certified by the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute
in Mysore, India. Luckily there are two studios within driving
distance, and they are even traditional Mysore style!

In Mysore-style classes, students practice by themselves. Instructors
observe students and make adjustments as needed. This has two
benefits:

• It empowers students to self-practice. In Ashtanga, the postures
  are done in a specific sequence. The movement from one pose to
  another, known as vinyasa, provides health benefits as important
  as the poses themselves. Since no one is leading the class, students
  must learn the series. Practicing at home is no different from
  practicing in class, encouraging regular practice and improved
  health.

• There is a lot of personal attention. In Mysore practice,
  instructors’ time is spent observing and adjusting our poses. I
  always feel progression in my practice as the instructor helps me
  stretch a little more, improves my posture, or teaches me how to
  get into a pose.

After class, I went to the library and borrowed Ashtanga Yoga: The
Definitive Step-by-Step Guide to Dynamic Yoga by John Scott, to
deepen my practice while at home. Coincidentally, my instructor
Katie also had it at the studio. Having a detailed book on how to
breathe, move, and pose is definitely helpful for anyone looking
to deepen their practice.

Thanks for reading, I hope you have a lovely day!