Ashtanga is a classical style of yoga practice that is focused on breath (prana), gazing point (drishti) and postures (asanas). Originating in Mysore India, Ashtanga practice is passed down parampara in succession from teacher to student one posture at a time. This system of teaching is much like coaching, where you have the personalised attention of the teacher but in a group setting.

At YIC, Ashtanga is taught in the tradition of K. Pattabhi Jois, and is considered a modern form of classical yoga. Many well known teachers from around the world began their training in Ashtanga and this classical practice has since spun off into various forms of yoga, including vinyasa and power yoga. At YIC, we believe that a sound foundational training in Ashtanga will also set you up for many styles of yoga practice. Of course, you may also choose to continue with your Ashtanga practice after the course!

Course Outline:

This course will be taught and guided by Ann Lee. A dedicated Ashtangi and passionate yoga teacher, Ann has curated a thoughtful programme to ensure that you get the maximum benefit from the sessions. You will be provided the opportunity to familiarise yourself with the Ashtanga sequence through guided and self-practise, as well as individual coaching from Ann throughout the course.

* Brief history of Ashtanga yoga

* Key principles of Ashtanga yoga

* Standing & Seated postures (until Janu Sirsasana), backbend (Wheel pose), and shoulder stand.

* Breathing

With all of the poses, we will provide modifications based on your experience.

This is a perfect course for those who are new to Ashtanga and even those who are new in yoga. It's a moderate and well-paced course so it is suitable for all levels.

At YIC, our mission is to provide a safe place of practice for everyone.

Course Structure:

Session 1 (1.5hrs): Saturday 24th April 2pm - 3:30pm

Brief history of Ashtanga

Explore the difference between Led class and Mysore class. What do all the vinyasa and power classes have in common? What does Patanjali have to do with Ashtanga?

Practice Tristhana (breathe, asana and drishti) - the tripod to Ashtanga.

Asana practice: guided followed by self-practice of Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskaras)

Q&A

Session 2 (1.5hrs): Sunday 25th April 9am - 10:30am

Recap of Session 1: includes Mysore style Sun Salutations

Asana practice: Padangusthasana to Parshvotanasana

Breathing

Q&A

Session 3 (1.5hrs): Saturday 1st May 2pm - 3:30pm

Recap of all sessions

Asana practice: Utthita Hasta Padanggusthasana to Purvotanasana

Breathing

Q&A

Session 4 (1.5hrs): Sunday 2nd May 10am - 11:30am

Session 4 (1.5 hours)

Ashtanga Led – Sun Salutations until Purvotanasana

Asana Focus – Ardha Baddha Padma Paschimatanasana to Janu Sirsasana

Breathing and Utplutihi

Q&A

Session 5 (1.5 hours): Saturday 8th May 2pm - 3:30pm

Mysore style – Sun Salutations until Janu Sirsasana

Asana Focus – Urdhva Danurasana (Wheel), Sarvangasana (shoulder stand)

Breathing and Utplutithi

Q&A

Session 6 (1.5 hours): Sunday 9th May 10am - 11:30am

Taking it altogether – Ashtanga Led

Q&A

Points to Note:

* Please bring along a towel for hygiene purposes

* Bring a pen and notepad for taking notes

* Try not to eat two hours prior to class; if you must eat, take light bites

* There will be adjustments in the course. If you’re uncomfortable with physical adjustments, please inform the teacher.