FAQs by Beginners
What should I bring for a class?
It is advised to wear comfortable cotton clothes (no artificial fabrics like those used for running). No need for fashionable yoga clothes - a T-shirt and some 3/4 pants or shorts are best. It is advised not to wear any jewellery, as it may restrict you while practicing. There are yoga mats available.
I cannot even touch my toes when bending forward. Can I still come to a yoga class?
YES!!! You need to come! Yoga is not about being flexible and being able to put your leg behind your head. Ashtanga yoga is about awareness of breath, inner-self and postures. We learn the series to focus on ourselves. Slowly, you will be able to touch your toes if you practice regularly, but over time you will realise that this is not why you come to class! ;)
Can I just show up for a class without registering?
Please, send us an e-mail before coming for the first time to know you/your level of practice and injuries if there are any.
In the schedule Mysore classes last more than 2 hours. Isn't that too long?
You won't be practicing for the full 2 hours. You’re not expected to be there the entire time—in fact it’s not advised. The time slot of more than 2 hours provides ample opportunity for early birds and somewhat later risers to attend the class. People come at a different times.
Most students practice for about 1 to 1½ hours which is the amount of time it usually takes to complete a full Primary Series. However, newcomers will spend maximum 1 hour at a class. You can agree with the teacher when is the most suitable time for you and the teacher to attend the class within the given time slot.
I have not done any yoga or any physical activity before. Is it still possible to attend a Mysore class?
YES! Actually, Mysore classes are the best way how to start with Ashtanga Yoga as you gradually build up the strength and flexibility. The teacher works with you independently, giving you new postures progressively. This way you do not have to be afraid of being exposed to difficult advanced postures which you are not able to perform.
If i am only practicing for 1 hour, what am I supposed to do for the rest of the time during class?
If you finish your practice before the official end of class time, then it’s fine quietly to roll up your mat and leave. The teacher will briefly leave the room with you to answer any questions and to collect payment for the class.
How many times per week should I come for a class if I am a complete beginner?
It is best to come as often as possible to memorise the Series and to gain strength and flexibility. The teacher will teach you a part of the series that you are supposed to repeat at home or at a class. If you do not practice, you will forget it and you won't advance and learn new positions. Ashtanga Yoga is a daily practice (6 days per week + 1 day off). It requires lots of dedication and will, but you will quickly see the benefits it brings on your physical, mental and spiritual condition.
It is advised to wear comfortable cotton clothes (no artificial fabrics like those used for running). No need for fashionable yoga clothes - a T-shirt and some 3/4 pants or shorts are best. It is advised not to wear any jewellery, as it may restrict you while practicing. There are yoga mats available.
I cannot even touch my toes when bending forward. Can I still come to a yoga class?
YES!!! You need to come! Yoga is not about being flexible and being able to put your leg behind your head. Ashtanga yoga is about awareness of breath, inner-self and postures. We learn the series to focus on ourselves. Slowly, you will be able to touch your toes if you practice regularly, but over time you will realise that this is not why you come to class! ;)
Can I just show up for a class without registering?
Please, send us an e-mail before coming for the first time to know you/your level of practice and injuries if there are any.
In the schedule Mysore classes last more than 2 hours. Isn't that too long?
You won't be practicing for the full 2 hours. You’re not expected to be there the entire time—in fact it’s not advised. The time slot of more than 2 hours provides ample opportunity for early birds and somewhat later risers to attend the class. People come at a different times.
Most students practice for about 1 to 1½ hours which is the amount of time it usually takes to complete a full Primary Series. However, newcomers will spend maximum 1 hour at a class. You can agree with the teacher when is the most suitable time for you and the teacher to attend the class within the given time slot.
I have not done any yoga or any physical activity before. Is it still possible to attend a Mysore class?
YES! Actually, Mysore classes are the best way how to start with Ashtanga Yoga as you gradually build up the strength and flexibility. The teacher works with you independently, giving you new postures progressively. This way you do not have to be afraid of being exposed to difficult advanced postures which you are not able to perform.
If i am only practicing for 1 hour, what am I supposed to do for the rest of the time during class?
If you finish your practice before the official end of class time, then it’s fine quietly to roll up your mat and leave. The teacher will briefly leave the room with you to answer any questions and to collect payment for the class.
How many times per week should I come for a class if I am a complete beginner?
It is best to come as often as possible to memorise the Series and to gain strength and flexibility. The teacher will teach you a part of the series that you are supposed to repeat at home or at a class. If you do not practice, you will forget it and you won't advance and learn new positions. Ashtanga Yoga is a daily practice (6 days per week + 1 day off). It requires lots of dedication and will, but you will quickly see the benefits it brings on your physical, mental and spiritual condition.