Ashtanga Yoga Mysore Style

Ashtanga Yoga is distinct among other styles of yoga for its focus on individual instruction in a small group, the way it was originally taught in Mysore, India. Mysore style is the optimal way to learn Ashtanga Yoga and is suitable for beginners. Each student practices their given sequence (Primary, Intermediate or Advanced) at their own pace with personal guidance including demonstrations, hands-on adjustments and verbal cues from the teachers Cathy Louise and Glen. You don't need any yoga experience to begin Mysore practice.


Step by step you first learn the Primary Series, a dynamic flowing sequence of asanas (postures) incorporating ujjayi (a breathing technique), bandhas (internal core "locks"), drishti (gazing point) and vinyasa (breath-synchronized movement). All of these tools combined create heat in the body, improve flexibility, develop strength, build stamina, and focus the mind.


We have limited space in our Ashtanga Mysore classes. New and returning students who are ready to learn yoga and develop a self-practice with our guidance should contact us for information on how to sign up for classes. Visitors please contact us in advance of your trip to Honolulu. For some insight into what an Ashtanga Mysore class is like, please read a student's experience of practice.


Ashtanga Yoga Led Primary Series

Ashtanga Yoga has two practice methods: the traditional Mysore style for individual instruction, and led class where students enjoy the combined energy of a group who follow the teacher Cathy Louise's count through the full Primary Series.


The Primary Series begins with sun salutations, moves through standing and seated asanas including twists and balances, and concludes with backbends, inversions and a deep relaxation. While students may choose to only attend our led class, we encourage you to complement it with regular Mysore style practice.


Pregnancy Yoga

Pregnancy is a time of change and celebration, as well as anticipation and anxiety. Yoga brings great awareness to what is going on within you and it gives you energy, restoring what you are putting into baby and also preparing you for birth.


Breath is the key. You will learn a technique that you can use anytime and will be especially helpful during labor. The breath is combined with postures (asanas) that safely strengthen your arms and legs and stretch the torso and spine to create space for growing baby. You may be familiar with Kegal exercises and in yoga terms this is called mula bandha (root lock). By practicing pelvic floor exercises you get a good start for both labor and after baby is born. Calmness comes from correct breathing and being in a friendly, supportive environment where you can focus on baby and you.


We recommend starting after your thirteenth week. Ask your health care provider if yoga is appropriate for you. The teacher is Cathy Louise, a mom of three including twins.


Mom & Baby Yoga

Getting back into exercise after giving birth is not easy for many new mothers, who find that just leaving the house is a great effort. Coming to Mom & Baby Yoga not only motivates you to get out and about with baby, this fun and safe class is revitalizing and relaxing.


Yoga exercises and movement combined with proper breathing helps Mom restore the pelvic floor, regain the inner strength of her abdomen and rediscover a sense of calm. It also provides babies with a soothing environment to both interact with Mom and experience their bodies in a new world. One of the special things about the class is that you are in a supportive space where you can take time out to nurse. Also, baby can choose to participate in the class, have a cry or fall asleep!


The class is suitable for newborns up until they start crawling and for mothers who have been cleared by their doctors to resume exercise. The teacher Cathy Louise is a mom of three including twins.