Atma Vikasa in the spirit of Yogacharya V. Venkatesha.

Ashtanga in the tradition of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois.

Hatha-yoga:
Hatha-yoga is an ancient system of techniques used to free the body and mind from tension, stress, illness and disease. The practice combines the use of physical postures (yogasanas), breathing exercises (pranayama) and meditation (dyhana) to develop flexibility, strength and balance. There are many different styles of hatha-yoga, each reflecting the teachings of a particular Master (Guru). Various types of hatha-yoga are Sivananda, Kripalu, Iyengar, Bikram, Kundalini and Atma Vikasa and Ashtanga yoga (to name a few). Many people today are under the misconception that hatha-yoga is one form of yoga and ashtanga is another. Actually ashtanga is hatha-yoga.

Ashtanga:
Ashtanga is a form of hatha-yoga developed by Pattabhi Jois. It is a practice of synchronized movements from one yoga posture to the next. The movements are called vinyasas. The practice is a structured series of postures and vinyasas, which uses ujjayi pranayama (method of breathing), drishtis (gazing points) and bandhas. Bandhas are locks or seals that create an internal and external heat. The intense heat purifies the muscles and organs by expelling toxins from the body, and the mind.

Atma Vikasa:
This system of hatha-yoga was developed by Yogacharya, V. Ventkatesha of Mysore, India. The method is a structured series of asanas (postures) that combines breathing and body alignment with concentration, and meditation. Unique to Venkatesh is the fact that he does not make any physcial adjustments to the student; instructions and guidance are given verbally and by demonstration. His approach is to allow the student to experience yoga from within. Atma Vikasa yoga is based on the Indian Culture and tradition of Yoga as a discipline for both the body and mind. It is Venkatesh's aim to teach yoga as more than a physical exercise, but as a spiritual practice.

5. DO YOU OFFER TRIAL CLASSES?

All programs at The Yoga Way are offered on an on-going basis. Students may register again by renewing their space in the same program (day/time). All programs are open to join at any time (subject only to available space). See Registration.

From your first yoga class your progress is monitored and teacher support offered. More demanding and challenging postures and exercises are taught according to the student's capacity and progress. Level of Programs.

8. I AM OVERWEIGHT AND OUT OF SHAPE. SHOULD I TAKE YOGA NOW?

Yoga can be practiced by anyone regardless of their present physical condition or ability. Postures are modified and adjusted to meet the needs of the student. While students are encouraged to work at their own pace, they are encouraged to approach the classes with an open mind and to be patient with their progress. In yoga, progress is often slow but steady.