Ashtanga Yoga is a structured class with a set sequence called the “primary series.” The sequence builds strength and flexibility while also cultivating mental focus and discipline. Students learn the “primary series” in an early morning practice in a self-guided approach with individual instructor guidance. Once a week, the teacher guides the full-sequence for the class together. The pace is active and vigorous. 

Students are drawn to Ashtanga Yoga not only for the physical benefits of building strength and flexibility but also for the mental focus, discipline and meditative aspect that comes with this type of practice.  As taught in Mysore, South India, the point of departure for the vast majority of students is asana or postures. Thus, the initial series of Ashtanga Yoga taught at Artemis is the Primary Series – which is a set sequence of postures that includes rounds of Sun Salutation A, Sun Salutation B, standing poses, seated poses, arm balances, twists, and closing poses. These poses are linked by breath and include a Drishti or what is also called a gazing point. Once proficient in this initial practice, natural curiosity will carry students to a more in-depth study of the remaining limbs.

Per tradition, students will be taught individually to their capacity. Although the primary series is a challenging and vigorous practice, new students can expect to practice for under an hour learning the postures, sequence order and the correct breath. New students are only given a few postures to begin, and as they become proficient, more postures will be added. Things naturally progress in duration and degree of difficulty as one responds to the repetition of practice.  

All are welcome at any point during class time to observe and discuss beginning a practice. There is no class on Moon Days (a new or full moon), which will be listed in the Mindbody schedule.