Why do you prefer to call “Ashtanga” Yoga “Self Practice” instead at Shiva?
Ashtanga yoga is a set sequence which can be led or practiced in silence at your own pace. We offer the latter here at Shiva; meaning the class is not led by an instructor which can be intimidating for some, but liberating for others.
Why is Ashtanga Yoga or Self practice important to you?
Both Mysore style (meaning silent) Ashtanga Yoga and Self practice is so important to me because I like to practice with other people and share the energy of the room. Also I prefer to practice outside of my house; I like to be in a different environment for a different head space. Practicing Ashtanga Yoga, or any type of yoga for that matter; in my own time, focusing on the breath and slowing down, allows me to really get into ‘the zone’. I feel really refreshed after the yoga class and it’s quite rare that as a society we have time to be on our own, with no distractions of tv, radio or phones.
What is the difference between Ashtanga yoga & Vinyasa Flow Yoga?
Vinyasa flow yoga is a lot more fluid and creative whereas the Ashtanga Yoga sequence is fixed. Both have positives, but many people enjoy practicing Ashtanga Yoga as the repetitiveness enables the student to see their progression. It also encourages the student to work on the yoga postures they would normally skip as many of us, out of choice, would probably only practice the yoga postures we enjoy to do as we’re good at them!
Is Ashtanga Yoga good for beginners?
In general I’d definitely say a led Ashtanga Yoga class is a good place to start for beginners as it can teach discipline and build both strength and flexibility. However here at Shiva we run our own total yoga beginners course over a period of 6 weeks. We cover all the basic yoga postures and break down the alignment and open the room for any questions and discussions. Our total yoga beginners course is good fun and lays the perfect foundation for anyone who would like to learn the Ashtanga Yoga sequence.
Why is a Self Practice or Ashtanga Yoga Class not as popular as other styles of Yoga in Cornwall?
A Mysore style Ashtanga Yoga class requires the knowledge of the set sequence which not everyone knows, so that could be one reason. Many students enjoy to be instructed and really love the variety which a Vinyasa Flow Yoga class offers whereas Ashtanga Yoga never changes. Our Newquay based studio offers this class on a weekly basis for anyone who wants to rock up and get moving.
Why is Ashtanga Yoga cheaper than the other yoga and pilates classes on your timetable? Why is Ashtanga Yoga cheaper than the other yoga and pilates classes on your timetable?
We have offered this Ashtanga Yoga/ Self practice class at a cheaper rate as there is no instructor. It’s £5 for the yoga class. There will always be a yoga teacher practising along side the other yoga students in the room, who is there for guidance, adjustments and questions but generally this yoga class is silent.
How do I remember the Ashtanga Yoga sequence?
The best way to remember the Ashtanga Yoga sequence is through repetition. Traditionally this style of yoga would be practiced 6 days a week, however with the modern world in which we currently live we appreciate this is ambitious. Instead we invite you to bring along a ‘cheat sheet’ with images of the Ashtanga Yoga Postures, for anyone who needs that extra prompt. However, as I said previously, anyone is welcome to just rock up and do their own practice of any yoga style from vinyasa to rocket, all is welcome.
When do you offer Ashtanga Yoga/ Self practice?
We offer Ashtanga Yoga on Friday mornings at 7am; it’s the best way to start the day! The Yoga class finishes around 8.30ish, and many of the students enjoying grabbing a coffee from Shiva Cafe after.
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