Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can practice Ashtanga Yoga?

People of all ages can begin the practice of Ashtanga Yoga as long as they practice with a qualified instructor, and are in good health when they begin the practice.

2. What time of day is best for practice?

In most cases the best time for practice is early in the morning before sunrise if one is committed to a daily practice,
if a student has a less consistent practice, they should pick a time that is best for them.

3. When should a student refrain from practicing?

1. One should always practice safely and if any injury occurs during practice, it is the responsibility of the student to seek medical attention, and to consult a physician before resuming practice.
2. All moon days can be observed when adhering to a daily practice. Full moon and new moon days should be used as a day of rest or for an alternative practice method.
3. Women should refrain from practicing during the first three days of their menstruation cycle and to avoid inversions during their entire cycle.
4. Pregnant women should avoid all inversions after the first trimester of pregnancy, and if taking up yoga for the first time during the pregnancy should consult a qualified pre-natal yoga instructor before starting their practice.

4. Must I be Vegetarian in order to practice Yoga?

It is generally believed that when practicing Yoga a student should cleanse and purify the body in order to approach the practice from a place of self awareness. A vegetarian diet is essential for one who wants to follow a spiritual path. Food prepared from fresh, locally grown produce and ingredients create the vitality and balance the body requires for a proper and grounded yoga practice. With respect and compassion to all living things a yoga practitioner is called upon to adhere to the principle of ahimsa (non violence), but eating animal products does not deem a yogi unfit to practice, and it is every student’s personal choice to do so.

5. Is it essential to go to Mysore, India to study?

At some point in one’s path to the Ashtanga practice it is a good idea to practice at the source, yet there are many qualified certified teachers who teach all over the world, so if you never visit India to practice in Mysore, or at the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute,  there are many teachers internationally and close to home that you can get the best training from.

6. Should I establish a self practice regiment?

At some point in the practice path it is good to form a self practice regiment. Lead classes can provide a great group rhythm and atmosphere but, as the student progresses a personal practice is recommended in order to form one’s own discipline and schedule.

7. I have been practicing the primary series for some time and would like to progress to the intermediate series, where should I start?

If you are studying with a Ashtanga yoga teacher, who is qualified to help you progress to a more advanced series you must consult him/her first before attempting anything on your own. It is always advised that you work till you have fully understood a series before you can progress to the next one.

We appreciate your feedback and questions. I will be updating the list as new questions arise.

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