Some guidelines for Ashtanga yoga….for everyone!!
*It is not recommended that you drink any water or liquids during your class. We are trying to heat up the body and cold water means that the kidneys have to start working. Conserve your energy for the practice. Drink as much as you like before and after class.
*it is not recommended that you eat at least 3 hours before a class. You may have a light snack 2 hours before class (soup, salad or small sandwich). We need the energy for the practice and not for digesting food. Food in the stomach can also cause gas and reflux during practice.
*it is not recommended that you do any inverted (upside down postures) when you have your period. Inverted postures direct energy against the flow of your menses.
*The room is heated to around 23 degrees. This may feel uncomfortable at first but you will soon get used to the heat. The reason for the heat is so the body can open up safely, and creates a purifying sweat to expel toxins from the body.
*Ujayi Breath means FREE or VICTORIOUS breathing. We use this breath to heat up the body from the inside out. It releases toxins through the heat and sweat. The process is called TAPAS, one of the meanings of which is “purification by fire”.
*it is not uncommon to feel dizzy and sometimes feel faint or slightly nauseous during your first Ashtanga class/classes. Give your body time to adjust to the practice and please discuss any concerns with your teacher.
*Ashtanga yoga was originally taught by Krishnamacharya in South India. He found the 6 series printed on some ancient banana leaves in a library and he and Patthabi Jois (Guruji) devoted time to the translation of these texts. Patthabi Jois is now considered the father of Ashtanga yoga and was Krishnamacharya’s student for over 30 years. The roots of Ashtanga yoga are thought to be at least 3000 years old. There are 6 series in total; everybody starts with the first or primary series. Each series can take 3-5 years to complete.
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