Disciplined Practice, Powerful Transformation
Ashtanga Yoga Classes
Experience the traditional Ashtanga system developed in Mysore. Fixed sequences, breath synchronization, and progressive challenge for dedicated practitioners.
What Is Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic, athletic practice following set sequences developed by Pattabhi Jois in Mysore, India. Unlike creative Vinyasa, Ashtanga always follows the same order - primary series, intermediate series, and beyond. This structure is intentional.
By practicing the same sequence repeatedly, you internalize the movements and shift attention from "what's next?" to the subtleties of each pose. The practice becomes meditation through movement, with breath and bandhas (energy locks) creating internal heat and focus.
Ashtanga builds extraordinary strength, flexibility, and discipline. It's challenging - there's no hiding from weak points. But for those who commit, the transformation is profound: physical power, mental clarity, and spiritual depth that other styles rarely achieve.
Ready to advance your Ashtanga practice? Our 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training includes advanced Ashtanga techniques. For a complementary gentle practice, try our yin yoga classes.
Benefits of Practice
Physical Benefits of Ashtanga Practice
- Builds exceptional full-body strength and endurance
- Develops profound flexibility through consistent repetition
- Creates lean, functional muscle tone
- Increases cardiovascular fitness through continuous flow
- Improves balance and proprioception
- Strengthens core and stabilizer muscles
- Detoxifies through internal heat and sweating
- Develops body awareness and control
Mental & Spiritual Benefits
- Cultivates extraordinary discipline and dedication
- Develops intense concentration through drishti (gaze) focus
- Builds mental fortitude through challenging practice
- Creates moving meditation through breath-movement synchronization
- Develops humility and acceptance - showing up daily regardless
- Reduces stress through systematic purifying practice
- Builds self-trust and self-knowledge
- Creates foundation for deeper meditative states
Preparing for Ashtanga Practice
Consistency First
Ashtanga rewards regular practice. Even 20-30 minutes daily is better than occasional long practices. Build the habit before worrying about perfection.
Hydration & Food
Ashtanga builds significant heat. Hydrate well before class. Practice on empty stomach - no food 2-3 hours before. Electrolyte replacement can help in hot weather.
Rest & Recovery
Ashtanga is demanding. Quality sleep and rest days (Saturdays, moon days, ladies' holiday) are essential. Respect recovery as much as effort.
Patience with Progress
Ashtanga cannot be rushed. New poses are added only when previous ones are mastered. This may take months or years - trust the process.
Non-Slip Clothing
You will sweat heavily. Wear moisture-wicking, non-slip clothing that stays in place during inversions and jump-throughs.
Ashtanga Primary Series
Yoga Chikitsa - Yoga Therapy
Sun Salutations
Surya Namaskar A (5x) and B (5x) to build heat and establish breath rhythm.
Standing Poses
Foundation postures from Padangusthasana to Parsvottanasana. Building alignment and strength.
Seated Sequence
Forward folds, twists, and hip openers from Dandasana to Setu Bandhasana. The heart of primary series.
Finishing Sequence
Inversions, backbends, and final postures. Shoulderstand, headstand, lotus variations, and final rest.
The Ashtanga Philosophy
More Than Physical Exercise
Parampara - Lineage
Ashtanga is passed directly from teacher to student in an unbroken lineage. We honor this transmission by teaching the method as we received it, without unnecessary modifications.
Vinyasa - Breath Movement
Every movement is synchronized with breath. This creates internal heat, purifies the body, and steadies the mind. The breath leads, the body follows.
Bandhas - Energy Locks
Mula bandha (root lock), uddiyana bandha (abdominal lock), and jalandhara bandha (chin lock) contain and direct energy. These subtle techniques are essential to authentic Ashtanga.
Drishti - Gaze Point
Each pose has a specific gaze point - nose, thumbs, navel, etc. Drishti focuses attention inward and prevents distraction. It's an essential part of the practice.
Sadhana - Daily Practice
Ashtanga is traditionally practiced 6 days per week. Consistency is essential. The sequence becomes a moving meditation through repetition and dedication.
Our Ashtanga Approach from the Mysore Tradition
Traditional Teaching
We teach Ashtanga as transmitted from Mysore. Same sequences, same method, authentic tradition. No innovations that dilute the practice. Our instructors trained extensively in this lineage.
Proper Time
90-minute classes allow for complete primary series including proper rest. No rushing through poses that deserve attention. Traditional timing respects each component.
Small Groups
Maximum 6 students ensures individual attention. Ashtanga requires hands-on adjustments and careful observation. Your teacher knows your practice personally.
Progressive Development
Students add poses as they master previous ones. Traditional method builds sustainable, safe progress. We don't rush - solid foundation before complexity.
Himalayan Setting
Practice Ashtanga in the same mountain environment where yoga flourished for millennia. Clean air for pranayama, natural quiet for focus, sacred energy for dedication.
What Our Students Say
Verified reviews from real students
121 reviews
19 reviews
Marcel Noack
Germany
Just pay a visit and you will understand why this place is special. Authentic yoga teachings, peaceful environment, and wonderful hosts. A hidden gem in Pokhara.
Yoga RetreatLee Seung-hun
South Korea
The best yoga class in this city. With teachers who has warm heart.
Drop-in ClassesTove Eklund
Sweden
Such a wonderful and empowering experience. Dedicated, hospitable and knowledgeable leaders. Clean and cozy facilities. Tasty and healthy food.
Yoga RetreatLise Crauwels
Belgium
Really nice spot to stay some days in Pokhara in between trekkings. Lovely yoga classes from Deepika 2 times a day. Oasis of peace with little garden in the center of Pokhara near the lakeside.
Drop-in ClassesJoin hundreds of satisfied students
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Written by
Swami AnandaSwami Ananda is the founder of Yoga in Pokhara, with over 10 years of teaching experience. Trained at ashrams in the Himalayas, he brings authentic yoga traditions to Pokhara, Nepal.
Ready for the Challenge?
Ashtanga demands discipline but rewards dedication. Join our traditional primary series practice and discover what committed yoga can achieve.