ASHTANGA WORKSHOP: A PRACTICE FOR THE EVERYDAY BEGINNER

Atha yoganusasanam: Now we begin the practice of Yoga. ( 1.1 Yoga Sutras of Patanjali)

This workshop is about the base, the method, and the frame of the Ashtanga practice. You will meet yourself in this frame and begin the path of self-discovery, a long-term process that requires lots of patience.

Ashtanga yoga can be an intimidating practice and often there are misconceptions about who can practice using this method. Ashtanga is a method for everyone. It provides you with a structure, but you can work within this structure at your own pace, safely and intelligently practising with mindfulness and acceptance will take you to a place of great compassion and understanding toward yourself and others.

During this workshop, we will cover in detail the essentials of the Ashtanga method. This will provide you with the opportunity to clarify, understand, and establish a solid foundation for your Ashtanga practice.

We will work within the frame of the primary series, the most healing and therapeutic sequence of the Ashtanga yoga method. Modifications can be done for different levels of experience or in case of injury, and there is always the option to skip certain poses if necessary. 

We will look at the philosophy behind the practice and have a closer look at the three elements of Tristana (breath, bandhas and drishti). These three fundamental tools will transform your practice and will allow you to cultivate presence, focus and stability, which ultimately makes your asana practice a full mind and body experience that transcends from your mat into all aspects of life.

We will review the Sun Salutations, a dynamic series of postures that builds strength, flexibility, and focus. We will also explore foundational standing postures, with modifications and variations to adapt your practice so it becomes sustainable, long-lasting, and beneficial.

This workshop is for any beginner-minded and curious student with an interest in learning or continuing to learn the Ashtanga method. For those who want to start practising Ashtanga, it will provide a solid foundation and for those who have some experience with the practice, it will be an opportunity to clarify and deepen your understanding of this method.