Yoga

Yoga means Union.

Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India more than 5000 years ago. Its purpose is to unite the mind, body and spirit in order to generate liberation (recognize our true Nature).

The practice of Yoga is part of a literary body of sacred texts known as the Vedas. These texts give access to the original meaning of non-dual consciousness (advaita), practices to quiet the mind (yoga), the first holistic healing system (Ayurveda) and show a path to recognize the purity of our Being (moksha).

The wisdom of the Vedas was revealed in the form of hymns and verses, to women (rishikas) and men (rishis) while in a state of meditation. Although they are now published in 4 books, originally the Vedas were transmitted orally. The Vedas are not a dogma and precede all religion (although many of the religions practiced in what is now India are based on them).

Through the thousands of years that yoga has been practiced, there have been different interpretations of its meaning, each adopting different emphasis and practices.

Yoga has become increasingly popular in the West in the past decades as a way of promoting physical and mental well-being. It is beneficial for everyone, it can be practiced anywhere, at any time, by people of all ages and cultures.

Whatever your personal circumstances and motivation to join our yoga classes, you will be welcome at Yoga Circle and supported in finding the yoga path that’s most beneficial for you.

Ashtanga Yoga

The practice

Ashtanga Yoga is a system that links movement with breath (vinyasa) in a specific sequence that purifies the body, mind and nervous system.

Ashtanga practice is taught individually within the context of a group (Mysore style). This allows each student to learn the sequence at their own pace, in silence, and in an atmosphere that promotes a meditative state.

At Yoga Circle we are committed to using this way of sharing the practice as an opportunity to make the practice accessible for everyone and create an environment where every Body is welcome, can learn the sequence at their own rhythm and adapt it to their specific needs & circumstances in the moment.

By adopting a regular practice, you yourself will begin to notice the physical, mental & emotional benefits that the practice generates. In addition, you will learn a series that you can continue practicing in the studio or in you own home.

You are welcome to join regardless of age or experience. Traditionally ashtanga is practiced 6 days a week. Start with what you can and let the practice do its work.

Its origins

Ashtanga Vinyasa system, derived from the ancient text Yoga Korunta, was transmitted by teacher Rama Mohan Brahmachari to his student T. Krishnamacharya, considered the father of "modern" yoga. He in turned passed it on to his disciple, Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. Today, his daugther Saraswathi Jois and grandson R. Sharath Jois continue sharing the practice in Mysore, India.