The Contemplative Sciences Center is collaborating with U.Va. IM-Rec Sports to offer an Ashtanga Yoga instructional program of traditional character and uncompromising excellence. Principal instructor John Bultman is recognized as an “authorized level 2” instructor by the K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute in Mysore, India.

Program Registration

(Open to students, faculty, staff and community members.)
1-month: member=$60, non-member $100
4-month: member=$200, non-member $320

The Mysore Ashtanga Yoga program is for all levels (beginner to advanced) and is offered in the Aquatic & Fitness Center (Multi-Purpose Room 2/3). Participants practice individually at their level and pace in a group with personalized instruction. Please allow around 45 minutes for your first practice. Practice times will be Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–11:00 AM; Sunday 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. Schedules may change due to intramural, athletic, special events, inclement weather or as needed.

John will lead a primary series class at 8:00 AM–9:30 AM on Friday mornings (in the same space) followed by Mysore style from 9:30 AM–11:00 AM. The first visit is FREE.

Mysore Style

In Mysore style classes, each student is instructed individually, receiving a one-on-one lesson within a group setting. Students work through the ashtanga series of poses, gradually developing their practice at their own pace and level. The Mysore style method of teaching is suitable for experienced practitioners as well as those new to yoga. The quiet Mysore practice fosters a meditative environment; students move with their breath while focusing on specified gazing points (dristi). Practitioners build strength, flexibility, stamina and concentration. Students are encouraged to practice 3-6 days a week, and to make a monthly commitment in order to experience the system fully. The term "Mysore style" refers to the way Ashtanga Yoga is taught at the K. Pattabi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute (KPJAYI) in the city of Mysore, India; UVa’s program continues the tradition as it is taught in Mysore. If you are not familiar with the Ashtanga Primary Series please consider attending this class on the drop-in schedule.

Guidelines

New students attending Mysore class should allow 30 to 45 minutes for practice. Your starting time is flexible; however, please allow enough time to finish.
Do not add or leave out poses unless you have spoken with the teacher about it.
If you do not remember or need assistance with a pose please wait quietly and the teacher will come to you as soon as they are able.
If you have injuries or other special needs, please let your teacher know.
Try not to drink water during class. We encourage you to hydrate yourself thoroughly when not in class.
Do not wear scented body lotions, perfumes or oils.
Students are encouraged to bring their own mat if possible. Public mats are available in the storeroom. Please wipe mats down and put them away after class.
It is best to wait at least 3-4 hours after eating a meal before practicing yoga.
Practice begins when you enter. Please respect the practice space and try not to talk in the room.

UVa Asthanga will not meet on the following days

January 11 (New Moon), January 26 (Full Moon), February 9 (New Moon), February 25 (Full Moon), March 11 (New Moon), March 26 (Full Moon), April 9 (New Moon), April 25 (Full Moon), May 9 (New Moon), May 24 (Full Moon), June 8 (New Moon).

For more information call 434.924.3791 or visit the Intramural-Recreational Sports Business Office, located in the Aquatic & Fitness Center (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:30 PM).