This is one of the most common questions we get, and honestly, it's a big reason why many hesitate to try Ashtanga Yoga. There’s a misconception that you need to be familiar with all the postures before stepping into a class.
The truth?
You don’t need to know any of the asanas before stepping into an Ashtanga Mysore class!
The beauty of Ashtanga, especially the Mysore style, is that it’s designed for learning. You don’t need to know anything before you start. In fact, not knowing is part of the process! Mysore classes are self-paced, and your teacher is there to guide you individually, showing you each posture step by step. You’re not expected to perform a whole sequence right away. Instead, you’ll start with just a few postures and gradually add more as you grow stronger and more confident.
The best part? You move at your own pace. There’s no rush, no pressure to “keep up.” Every student practices at their level, whether you’re brand new or have been practicing for years. And the teacher is there every day to support you through it all.
So, if you’re holding back because you think you need to know all the poses before starting, I’m here to tell you: just start. The practice will meet you exactly where you are, and together, we’ll move forward one breath at a time.
Remember, Ashtanga isn’t about knowing it all—it’s about showing up, learning, and growing over time.
Comments