About Ashtanga Yoga

Nadia and Gabriel Stinga Rihani are committed to teaching Ashtanga Yoga as taught by R. Sharath Jois of the Ashtanga Yoga Institute (KPJAYI), who continues the work of his grandfather Sri. K Pattabhi Jois. Both Nadia and Gabriel are authorised to teach this practice, receiving the blessing from Sharath Jois after sharing between them almost 20 years of dedicated practice.

The Ashtanga yoga sequence is based on “vinyasa” – breath movement synchronisation. This warms the body, resulting in sweat, the removal of toxins and the purification of the body, mind and nervous system. Practitioners develop strength, flexibility, stamina and an overall sense of wellbeing.

In a Mysore class the postures are taught sequentially, allowing students to develop at a pace that is suitable to each individual. Students will develop a self-practice that is done at their own pace and taught to them over time by their teacher. This makes it ideal for students of any ability (beginners to advanced, injured or not) so long as they are able to commit to the practice.

Mysore Classes at Village Village are taught 5 mornings a week in Potts Point and there are also led classes on Fridays (that are open to those who attend the Mysore classes). Traditionally a 6 day per week practice, students of Mysore style must be willing to commit to a minimum of 3 mornings per week to gain an understanding and level of comfort in the practice. it is not recommended to attend other classes whilst practicing the Ashtanga method as it can be counterintuitive and can confuse mind and

As per the tradition, there will be no classes held on New and Full Moon. For more information and a list of New and Full Moon dates in Sydney Australia please click here.

Ashtanga Yoga is powerful tool for self-transformation. It is suitable for all ages, body types and fitness levels. All that is needed is an open mind, enthusiasm to learn and a commitment to practicing regularly. The greatest benefits come with regular practice.

We do not take drop in students to the Mysore Program unless they have an existing Ashtanga practice.

New students are most welcome to attend Ashtanga, but please be aware of the commitment it requires and give it a full month of practice rather than a single drop in class.

For more information on Ashtanga Yoga & Mysore classes please contact Nadia. For more information on Ashtanga Yoga please visit kpjayi.org

Many of us know through experience or through hearing the rumours that Ashtanga Yoga is a strong practice, both physically and mentally. The practice (when adhered to properly) requires intense dedication from its students which is one of the reasons this practice can be so incredible transforming.

When I first began to practice I didn’t adhere to all these ‘rules’ such as practicing 6 days per week, taking rest when I was menstruating, respecting the full and new moon as rest days. But after a year or so they seemed to make sense and I naturally wanted to respect and follow this tradition in its tried and tested form.

When I explain to friends, family (and sometimes students) the reasons why we take rest on new and full moon I am often met with a rolling of the eyes, like what I am saying has no substance. And maybe it does appear that way, but I can say in honesty that since I have started respecting the moon cycles my whole body seems more in sync with the natural cycles of the planet and universe. Taking rest on the moon isn’t just a requirement, by the time the moon day comes along, I can actually feel it in my body.

“It has always been the tradition in Ashtanga Yoga to rest from asana practice on new and full moon days (tithis). When asked why we shouldn’t practice on these days, Guruji was fond of saying, “Two ‘plantets’ [grahas] one place, very dangerous.” What is meant by this is that on these days, the sun and the moon are in a line relative to the position of the earth. Consequently, their gravitational forces are all combined, and thus the effect of the ‘plantets’ more pronounced. One definitive effect of this is that the ocean’s tides are higher and lower on these days. When āsana practice is done daily, rest days are important for regeneration; and the extra biweekly ‘moon day’ comes as a welcomed respite.”

So we are now respecting the rest days in our Ashtanga Yoga program here at Yoga Village. All other classes will take place as usual, but Ashtanga Yoga Mysore Style, Intro to Ashtanga Yoga and Ashtanga Led Classes will not take place on the following days.

Please don’t use those days to go running or do another yoga class. Instead give your body a chance to rest, sleep in a little, meditate, stretch lightly at home or go for a stroll in the park. And enjoy!!

Much Love

Nadia