About Ashtanga
Ashtanga is an old system of yoga with roots in south India. This dynamic practice links movement with breath (vinyasa) which promotes strength, stamina, flexibility, and a purifying sweat. It is a uniquely athletic style of yoga.
Ashtanga is a system of tristhana, or three parts: drishti, or gazing points; asanas, the physical postures, with a strong emphasis on the bandhas (muscular/energetic locks); and the breath. The breath is the most important part of the practice! If you can breathe, you can do it.
The traditional method of teaching Ashtanga yoga, called "Mysore-style", is taught to each student on an individual basis, allowing that student to learn at a pace that is appropriate for their own body and needs. This method of teaching is done in a group setting: that means total beginners can learn alongside seasoned practitioners. Mysore classes promote a personal, independent practice with instruction and adjustments from the teacher as needed. Anyone can learn this practice as long as they are willing to try, regardless of age, ability, and even injury - the only person who cannot learn Ashtanga is a lazy person! This is the most authentic way to learn yoga and the safest way to progress through the system.
Ashtanga is a system of tristhana, or three parts: drishti, or gazing points; asanas, the physical postures, with a strong emphasis on the bandhas (muscular/energetic locks); and the breath. The breath is the most important part of the practice! If you can breathe, you can do it.
The traditional method of teaching Ashtanga yoga, called "Mysore-style", is taught to each student on an individual basis, allowing that student to learn at a pace that is appropriate for their own body and needs. This method of teaching is done in a group setting: that means total beginners can learn alongside seasoned practitioners. Mysore classes promote a personal, independent practice with instruction and adjustments from the teacher as needed. Anyone can learn this practice as long as they are willing to try, regardless of age, ability, and even injury - the only person who cannot learn Ashtanga is a lazy person! This is the most authentic way to learn yoga and the safest way to progress through the system.
About Holly
Holly Menzies has been traveling to Mysore, India, regularly since 2005 to study first at the K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute, and more recently at the Sharath Yoga Center, and has received level 2 teaching authorization. She began teaching in 2006 and owned Ashtanga Yoga Tacoma from 2010-2012. Holly gave birth to a perfect baby boy in early 2014, giving her valuable insight and experience with Ashtanga and pregnancy.
Holly was a presenter at the 2017 Northwest Yoga Conference.
Learn more about Holly and her Ashtanga journey by reading her interview with Ashtanga Parampara here.
Holly was a presenter at the 2017 Northwest Yoga Conference.
Learn more about Holly and her Ashtanga journey by reading her interview with Ashtanga Parampara here.