What to Expect at Your First Ashtanga Class

The first Ashtanga class can be a bit confusing. So, here’s everything you need to know before coming in for practice!

There are two types of Ashtanga classes on our regular schedule: self-practice and guided classes.

What’s the difference between these classes? Which one should I try first? How do I know what to do?

• Self-Practice – this class you will receive individualized guidance through an Ashtanga Yoga practice which best suits your unique self!
• Guided – this class will have all the students in the room moving through the same series at the same time. There will be variations offered and options to adapt practice for the individual.

Both of these classes are traditional methods for learning and practicing Ashtanga Yoga.

Both of these classes will be led by teachers who practice Ashtanga Yoga regularly and are devoted to sharing the practice with anyone who is interested in learning.

Which one should I try first?

The self-practice classes are the recommended place to start. In these classes you’ll get to have personalized attention and guidance while still having the shared energy and shared camaraderie of a group class.

How do I know what to do?

First off, you don’t have to have anything memorized and don’t have to know where to start. When you arrive for your first self-practice class you can expect:

• A warm greeting from one of our amazing teachers
• An opportunity to introduce yourself to the teacher directly and discuss any injuries, sensitivities or intentions you would like to share
• 1 on 1 time with your teacher as they walk you through the postures/flows individually
• Time to explore, breathe and play around with those poses/flows at your own pace
• A chance to ask questions about your practice in real-time (instead of trying to remember your question for after class)
• An experience of sharing in a collective practice that is also intensely individualized
• No expectations of having anything memorized or prepared
• If it’s your first time with yoga, no problem, we’ll show you how and where to begin
• If you’re an experienced yoga practitioner who is just new to Ashtanga, no problem, we’ll help you level-up your existing practice