The significant problems we have
cannot be solved at the same level of thinking
with which we created them.
Albert Einstein
How is Ashtanga Yoga different from other types of yoga?
I have never taken yoga before. Is Ashtanga right for me?
How should I prepare for my first lesson, and what should I bring/wear?
Is Ashtanga yoga the same as "Power Yoga"?
Why are there no lessons on the new or full moon?
How do I start lessons with the Green Room School of Yoga?
Do I have to be flexible or physically fit to try Ashtanga Yoga?
Should women practice during menstruation, or during pregnancy?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
How is Ashtanga Yoga different from other types of yoga?
Sri K. Pattabhi Jois' Ashtanga yoga is a traditional method of yoga practice that is estimated by some to be 5000 years old. Some other methods of yoga practice include Iyengar, Kripalu, Sivananda and Vinyasa. There are many aspects of Ashtanga yoga that are common to other methods of yoga. The main difference between Ashtanga yoga and other methods is the use of ujjayi breathing, and the linking of vinyasa, bandhas (energy locks) and dristhi (gazing points). Ashtanga is also considered to be one of the more challenging and intense yoga methods, and requires regular practice (minimum of 4 days/week). Regardless of this fact, it is accessible to anyone especially when taught in a Mysore class setting (scroll down for information about Mysore classes).
Vinyasa means movement synchronized with breath. In Ashtanga yoga, for each movement there is one breath. For example, in Surya Namaskara A, or Sun Salutation A, there are 9 vinyasas. The first vinyasa is inhaling while raising the arms over the head and bringing the hands together. The second vinyasa is exhaling while bending forward and placing the hands on the floor next to your feet, and so on. Every posture in the Ashtanga yoga series is assigned a certain number of vinyasas. Vinyasa forms the foundation of Ashtanga yoga, and it creates an internal heat which aids strength, flexibility and detoxification of the muscles and organs. Body pains are also removed, as blood begins to circulate more freely in the joints and internal organs.
Dristhi refers to the place where you look in each asana. For example, in Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana), the dristhi is the navel. The use of different dristi points purifies the mind, making it more stable. The practice of vinyasa, together with dristi or gazing points, allows the student to draw attention and focus inward. Eventually, with memorization and regular practice, Ashtanga yoga becomes a moving meditation.
Another difference between Ashtanga yoga and other forms of yoga is that Ashtanga yoga follows defined and non–changing posture sequences which are taught progressively over time to allow the body to adapt to the postures. The Ashtanga method consists of six sequences of postures, or series. Each student begins with Primary Series, which is learned over the course of many years. Some will find Primary Series a sufficient challenge for a lifetime, while others will move into the later Series.
» Back To TopI have never taken yoga before. Is Ashtanga right for me?
Yes! Ashtanga is accessible to everyone. There is a misconception that only advanced or experienced practitioners should try or practice Ashtanga. In fact, Pattabhi Jois regularly teaches new students at his yoga shala in India. Private lessons with the Green Room School of Yoga will provide each student with customized instruction that is best suited to their individual needs, and will give the student a proper foundation. A proper foundation becomes very important as the student's practice progresses and advances.
» Back To TopHow should I prepare for my first lesson, and what should I bring/wear?
Comeon an empty stomach. If this is not possible, be sure to allow at least 3-4 hours after a meal, and 1-2 hours after a small snack. Empty the bowels and bladder. Students are asked to refrain from drinking water during practice, and for 1/2 hour before and afterwards. You can leave your water bottle at home, or in your car. You will need only a yoga mat, and you may wish to bring a small towel as well. As for clothing, flexible, non-binding attire is best. Baggy or loose fitting tops are not recommended as they can obstruct mobility and make it difficult for your teacher to adjust you if necessary. You may also want to bring something to cover up with for your rest period (5-10 minutes at the end of your practice).
» Back To TopIs Ashtanga yoga the same as "Power Yoga"?
No. Power Yoga is a fairly recent form of yoga that was introduced in the past 10 years by Western practitioners. Some Power Yoga classes are based on the Ashtanga Yoga sequence or contain characteristics of Ashtanga yoga. These classes are in no way related to the Ashtanga yoga classes offered at the Green Room School of Yoga.
» Back To TopWhy are there no lessons on the new or full moon?
Lunar cycles affect our subtle energy systems. The new and full moons are the strongest points of the lunar cycle. It is said that because our energy is more strongly affected on these days, there is a greater risk of injury during practice. It is also said that injuries suffered on moon days take longer to heal. On the New moon, the body is more grounded, but we usually feel heavy and inflexible. On the Full moon, the body is full of ungrounded energy which creates physical instability. For these reasons, Ashtanga yoga is not practiced during the New or Full Moon. Rest, honor the moon and enjoy the day off!
» Back To TopHow do I start lessons with the Green Room School of Yoga?
Please contact the school at 973.660.9526 to set up private or semi-private lessons. We are happy to discuss our program with you, as well as any needs or concerns you may have. We will also answer any questions. Fee information and policies will also be provided at that time.
» Back To TopDo I have to be flexible or physically fit to try Ashtanga yoga?
There are no pre–requisites to practicing Ashtanga yoga. As Pattabhi Jois says, anyone – young or old, weak or strong, healthy or sick – can practice yoga. It doesn't matter at what age or fitness–level you begin. If you can breathe, you can do yoga. In fact, the Primary Series of Ashtanga yoga is known in Sanskrit as "Yoga Chikitsa", or yoga therapy. It is a personal, non–competitive practice. The asana sequences in Ashtanga yoga are designed to return the practitioner back to good health. Through the practice of yoga, you will develop the strength, endurance and flexibility you need to be fit and healthy. All you need to do is show up. As Guruji says, "Do your practice and all is coming." Of course, if you are suffering from an injury, physical limitation or physical condition, you should inform the teacher before beginning practice.
» Back To TopShould women practice during menstruation, or during pregnancy?
Women are advised to refrain from practicing during the heaviest days of their menstrual cycle (usually the first 3–4 days). This is called "Ladies' Holiday". Apana, or downward-moving energy, dominates during the menstrual cycle. There are many aspects of the Ashtanga method that are specifically designed to reverse apana energy. This works against the natural rhythms of the body during menstruation, so that practicing during this time can disrupt the menstrual cycle, and in certain instances, can cause the cycle to temporarily cease. There is also a suspected connection between practicing yoga postures during menstruation and the development of uterine fibroids. Fibroids are benign growths, and their exact origins are unknown. It is known that hormones and blood feed fibroids. Practicing yoga asanas dilates blood vessels and increases blood supply to the uterus, and as a result may encourage growth of fibroids. For these reasons, women are strongly advised to refrain from practice during the heaviest days of their menstrual cycle. Rest instead!
Regarding pregnancy, until pregnancy is confirmed, starting Ashtanga Yoga or continuing a regular practice is fine. Once conception occurs, certain modifications are necessary and can vary depending on the experience and health of the student. We welcome mommies-to-be, and will work with you individually to design a practice suited to your needs.
» Back To Top