The primary Intent: To provide students with the knowledge and tools in which to establish a Classical Ashtanga Vinyasa practice that is traditional in its form as well as both self sufficient and sustainable.
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is a traditional form of Classical Hatha Yoga. It is a system built around the precise inter-linking of Yoga postures (Asana), bound by a "specific-breathing technique", (Ujjaii Pranayama), simultaneously sychnchronized with a continuous flow of precise, meditative, sequential movement (Vinyasa). The Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga practice is differentiated from other systems of yoga by its use of this Vinyasa system whereby the holding of postures, as well as the transitions into and out of postures are linked together by breathing sequences. There is an initial primary focus on a developing of the internal practices of Pranayama (breath regulation), Bandha development (the gathering and distributing of internal energies) and Drishti (points in which to orientate the meditative gaze of the eyes). The practice, when consistent, holds the potential to bring equilibrium to the entire psycho-physiological structure, culminating in a deep physical, mental and spiritual balance and concentration. The deep benefit of an authentic system such as this may not reveal itself all at once. If you're willing to come and practice, we'd love to share it with you.
Step 1: Mastering the Basics - Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga and More
YogaPada's Mastering the Basics (MTB) training is the introductory stage of YogaPada's curriculum and personal Yoga training. It is the initial stage of a 3 stage training. The second stage is titled Continuing the Basics (CTB). These two stages are then followed by a 3rd stage titled Integrating the Basics (ITB). These stages are designed to provide the student with both the necessary knowledge and "practice ethic" to begin a lifelong yoga practice. To further the practice ethic you have the opportunity to attend any and all other classes offered at Yogapada during your training. MTB training is the suggested prerequisite for attending any of the regular classes offered at Yogapada. By combining Iyengar alignment techniques, with the traditional principles of the Primary (1st) series of the Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga system, MTB training brings you a fusion of these two classical schools of Hatha Yoga.
The MTB course is appropriate for both beginning and more seasoned practitioners of any style of yoga. All levels are welcome. Students who wish to attend classes at YogaPada, and wish to bypass the MTB training, are advised to contact Yogapada, either via email (info@yogapada.com) or by calling 503-453-9131.
Upcoming MTB classses:
September 17 - October 14
Mondays and Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm
Sundays, 9:45 - 11:45 am
October 16 - November 11
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 - 9 pm
Sundays, 9:45 - 11:45 am
Cost: $185.00 for each 4 week immersion. Includes all study materials. Payment plans are available.
Info: For further information contact Timo Jimenez at
STEP 2: CONTINUING THE BASICS
Description: This four week Continuing the Basics (CTB) course is designed to build on the foundation you created in the Mastering the Basics (MTB) course. At YogaPada, our intention is to help you move to a combination of led classes and Mysore practice when you feel ready. After you have completed MTB, you are free to take any combination of MTB and CTB courses as you move towards led classes and Mysore practice. While in this CTB course, you may attend any led class or Mysore session on a complimentary basis. We share and support your vision of a sustainable yoga practice.
The poses and the flowing transitions between the first series of the Ashtanga Vinyasa system are very challenging. Initial mastery requires three to five years of concerted effort. True refinement of this flowing form is a lifelong process. Many bodies will never achieve the form and range of motion that is shown in pictures of advanced practioners. That's perfectly acceptable. We will meet you where you are today and show you modifications of the "final pose" that will allow you to experience the essence of the pose now. It is helpful when you show us what you can do. It is our curious desire that you will come to the mat and do what you cannot do.
CTB will reinforce your MTB introduction to the Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga system. This training will focus on refining your understanding of the first series of Ashtanga Vinyasa. There will be further exploration of the foundational aspects of the Ashtanga Vinyasa system. There will also be an introduction to the Gravity & Grace work of Peter Sterios. Peter, our friend, is a renowned yoga teacher based in San Luis Obispo, California.
Prerequisites:
1. Completion of the Mastering the Basics course. An experienced student who has not taken MTB may attend with the approval of Timo or other staff. Approval will be based on a discussion of the student's level of yoga experience.
2. An intent, willingness and desire by the student to establish a classical study of lead classes, Mysore, & self-styled practice of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.
Upcoming CTB classses:
October 15 - November 11
Mondays and Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm
Sundays, 7:30 - 9:30 am
November 13 - December 16
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 - 9 pm
Sundays, 7:30 - 9:30 am
(optional 5th week: Dec. 18 - 22)
Cost: $185.00 for each 4 week immersion. Includes all study materials. Payment plans are available.
Info: For further information contact Timo Jimenez at
Mastering The Basics Program 3rd Level: Integrating the Basics
The next phase, titled Integrating the Basics (ITB), is designed to ease students into the daily schedule of classes offered at YogaPada. We designed the classes in a way that you can meet and start to practice with regular YogaPada students. We will also keeping the training aspect of the program that allows you to have access to study materials and group discussions.
The program is good for the current Mastering/Continuing the Basics to students and also for those who have done one or both of trainings in the past and would like to have a kick start back to their practice.
Upcoming ITB classses:
September 18 - October 14
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 - 9 pm
Sundays, 7:30 - 9:30 am
November 12 - December 16
Mondays and Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm
Sundays, 7:30 - 9:30 am
(optional 5th week: Dec. 17 - 22)
