| WHY |
I Ashtanga
My introduction to ashtanga yoga was with the International Yoga Center in Tokyo, 2002. I signed up for a 3 day retreat expecting a chill hatha style practise that my Aunt taught. The unique approach to daily practice, know as 'Mysore style', was the key that unlocked a lifelong love affair with the primary series.
In the capable hands of Ken Harakuma and Basia Larsen (nee Lipska), I laid the foundation for a practice that is known as moving meditation. This led me to travel to Mysuru in 2004, to practice with Guruji Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. My love for Ashtanga was cemented and my dedicated self practice continues to this day.
| The Source |
Places of significance
- Mysuru -
Kpjay Shala
K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Shala is the link to the birthplace and source of Ashtanga yoga. This is a very important place to practitioners of Ashtanga and is the only place to truly experience 'Mysore style' practice.
Address:
235, 8th Cross, 3rd Stage, Gokulam, Mysore 570002
What I love about it
You arrive at first light to a relaxed queue outside. As you wait your turn, you watch advanced practitioners blow your mind. You lay your mat down to an unforgettable practice. Before breakfast, your mind and body are nourished and prepared for whatever amazing day you have planned.
Sharath Yoga Centre
The sudden passing of Sri Sharath Jois, leader of Ashtanga yoga, on 11 Nov 2024 was a terrible blow to the Ashtanga community worldwide. He taught thousands of yogis and trained hundreds of teachers in this revered practice.
Address:
Plot No 38-P3 and 39, Hebbal 2nd Phase, Mandya District 571606
Why it is significant
This is an important link to the lineage of Ashtanga yoga. In 1948, Sri K. Pattabhi Jois formally established the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute. The beloved grandfather to Sri Sharath Jois studied under the father of modern yoga, Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, for 25 years.
Shravanabelagola
Roughly 2 hours drive from Kpjay Shala, these ancient Jain temples are truly breathtaking (before you even climb the roughly 700 steps). A worthwhile place to appreciate some of the incredible history that the area has to offer.
Address:
Jinnenahalli, Karnataka 573135
Unforgettable day trip
Mysuru has a wealth of amazing places to visit, but Shravanabelagola is a sight to behold. Taking advantage of Saturday mornings off from practice at Kpjay Shala, this incredible day trip, tops my 'best places to meditate' list. A monument to astonishing feats of engineering.
| Inspiration |
Learn more about Ashtanga
In loving memory of Sri Sharath Jois (Sep 29 1971 - Nov 11 2024) and Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (Jul 26l 1915 - May 18, 2009)