ASHTANGA YOGA MYSORE STYLE PRACTICE ETIQUETTE

• Mysore style is a very traditional form of yoga practice that can be described as assisted self-practice. Although practitioners move within the framework of the Ashtanga sequences, the practice of postures is very personalized and this form of practice allows makes space for detailed explanations, modifications and adjustments so each student can practice safely and in a way that is beneficial to them in this moment.

• Generally speaking, students will move through the sequences in a slow and safe way.

• Wait patiently in Samastitihi (equal standing posture) or Dandasana (staff pose, when seated) until your teacher has time for you. 

• Do not continue without the permission of your teacher. 

• Talk to your teacher about injuries, oddities and practice in a healing manner, always.

• Breath is king: if the breath is not correct, the asana does not count!

• If you have a question, ask first, before getting busted (after).

• Keep your drishti - don’t copy your neighbors, don’t “steal” from other practitioners. Make this practice YOUR own.

• Wear clean clothes that do not seek attention. 

• Drink lots of water: at least 30 minutes before or then again, 30 minutes after class. Not during. 

• Shower before class. It's best not to shower right after. 

• Take rest on new and full moon days. Or thereabouts. Adjust your practice accordingly.

• Wash your mat often. Use cotton rugs if you sweat a lot.

• Wear non-scented products to practice. Continuous practice can highten your senses and you may disturb your neighbor by wearing intensely scented products.

• Leave your practice space clean. 

• Laugh. Often and especially during practice. 

• Practice way more than you talk about practice. Show up twenty, or a hundred times more often than you talk, email or text about it. 

• More than asana practice: ask and learn about using Ghee, castor oil, sesame oil, coconut oil. Get them on and in the body, for joint health and inner fluidity.

• LADIES: During the heavy part of your menstrual cycle, the practices of mula or uddiyana bandhas are contraindicated. Menstruation is a natural sedative that helps you restore vital energy each month. Take this opportunity, and if so moved, take chocolate too. You’re entitled to rest.

• Whatever your gender or age, pay attention to your monthly and annual rhythms as well as to those of the moon, seasons, and the people around you. Cycles create meaning and beauty, and soothe our nervous systems.