You Don't Need Any Experience

Let's get this out of the way first: you don't need to be flexible, strong, or have any yoga experience to start Ashtanga. The practice is progressive—it meets you where you are and grows with you over time.

Some of our most dedicated students started unable to touch their toes. That's completely normal and not a barrier to practice.

What to Wear

Ashtanga is a physical practice that involves forward folds, twists, and moving through sun salutations. Choose:

• Form-fitting clothing — Baggy shirts tend to fall over your head in forward folds
• Stretchy material — You'll need full range of motion
• Layers optional — The room isn't heated, but you'll warm up through practice

For men: shorts or fitted pants and a t-shirt work well. For women: leggings and a fitted top or tank. Skip the jewelry—it can get in the way.

What to Bring

• Nothing required — We have mats and towels available
• Your own mat — Bring one if you prefer (6mm or thinner works best)
• Water — For before and after practice (we recommend not drinking during)
• An open mind — This is different from other yoga classes you may have tried

Preparing for Your First Class

The Night Before

• Get a good night's sleep (early morning classes are easier when rested!)
• Avoid heavy meals late at night
• Set your alarm with plenty of buffer time

The Morning Of

• Don't eat — Practice on an empty stomach (coffee/tea is okay)
• Hydrate — Drink water before arriving
• Arrive 10-15 min early — Especially for your first visit

What Your First Class Looks Like

Here's a realistic picture of a beginner's first Mysore experience:

1. Arriving: You'll meet the teacher and talk briefly about any injuries or concerns
2. Setting up: Find a spot, unroll your mat, and wait for the teacher
3. Learning: The teacher will guide you through Sun Salutation A, teaching breath and movement
4. Practicing: You'll do a few rounds, receive corrections, and maybe learn a few more poses
5. Finishing: After 30-45 minutes, you'll lie down in Savasana (rest pose)
6. Leaving: Roll up your mat and head out—no formal class ending

What to Expect Mentally

Your first class might feel overwhelming. You might:

• Feel uncoordinated at first (everyone does!)
• Forget what you just learned
• Wonder why everyone else seems to know what they're doing
• Feel tired afterward

This is all normal. The practice is cumulative—each day you remember a little more, get a little stronger, and understand a little better. Don't judge yourself after one class.

The "Secret" to Ashtanga

The secret isn't flexibility or strength—it's showing up. The transformation happens through consistency over time. Practitioners who come 3+ times per week see real changes within months.

There's a saying in Ashtanga: "Practice and all is coming." It sounds simple, but it's true. The practice works on you even when you don't notice it.

Common Beginner Questions

"I'm not flexible—can I do this?"

Yes! Flexibility comes from practice, not before it. Some of the stiffest people become devoted practitioners because they notice the most change.

"How often should I practice?"

Start with what's realistic—maybe 2-3 times per week. As you build routine and fall in love with it, many practitioners naturally want to come more often.

"It's early—how do people do this?"

Honestly, you get used to it! Most people find that once they establish the habit, they actually prefer early practice to evening classes. You start the day feeling accomplished.

"How is this different from vinyasa?"

Ashtanga is the original vinyasa—modern vinyasa flow developed from it. The difference is that Ashtanga follows a set sequence, while vinyasa classes vary each time.