Beginners Class Problems

by Liz Driver
(England)

Hello, i'm in england and never done yoga before.

I joined an ashtanga group that was starting in a nearby town. five weeks later and i still feel a bit swamped, the class moves ahead very quickly and i don't feel i have enough time to remember the moves or their names.

We have done the two suryanamaskaras, fundamental asanas and the first five primary series postures....as on your brilliant download.

Is this right?

Thankyou
Liz Driver

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Dear Liz,

Thanks so much for your email.

As with any new practice feeling overwhelmed is completely normal!

DO NOT FRET ABOUT THIS.

As with anything, patience and persistence, will prevail.

Unfortunately "led" style Ashtanga Yoga classes have become the most common method of teaching this practice and often it is not the best venue for teaching Ashtanga Yoga. At the end of this post I'll give you some references to read about the Mysore Style practice.

In truth, Pattabhi Jois did not teach "led" classes at the start of his career, this came later.

As to your question, what you are learning in your classes sounds fantastic. Let me assure you what you have described is a very normal reaction to learning the series.

But let me ask you:

1. Are you only practicing once a week?
2. Is it a "Mysore" style or "Led" style class?
3. Have you spoken to your teacher about the speed of the class?

Speaking to your teacher is very important. They may be able to give you some sound advice as to how to ease the pressure on yourself.

Attending some Mysore style classes with someone who is "authorized" or "certified" and whom you develop a trusting student teacher-student relationship with is obviously most preferable. To find our who these teachers are check here: KPJAYI Website - Teachers List. This will give you an idea who is in your area.

Here are two references to review what the "mysore" style vs "led" class style is all about. The first is from this site:

What is Ashtanga Yoga?

The second is from Ashtanga Yoga Victoria – It's the website from our actual Yoga School in Victoria, BC – and I think we might have explained "mysore" style classes there:

What is the Mysore Style Yoga Class?

If you have any other questions please drop us a note!

Blessings,
Jeff


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