At Studio 2, the method of yoga we offer is Ashtanga-style yoga with an Iyengar influence. Combining these two methods allows for a practice that encourages movement through the postures with emphasis placed on the body’s alignment and attention to detail. With this we hope to achieve the perfect balance between developing strength and flexibility in the safest way possible.
Ashtanga and Iyengar yoga come from the same lineage – the teachers who developed these styles (Pattabhi Jois and BKS Iyengar) were both taught by Tirumalai Krishnamacharya. Many of the asanas (postures) are the same, but the approach is different.
Ashtanga yoga
The key component of Ashtanga yoga is how one posture is connected to the one preceding it and the one following it. You will be led non-stop through one or more of the Ashtanga series, while being encouraged to breathe as you move from pose to pose. Ashtanga places equal emphasis on strength, flexibility and stamina. It is typically fast-paced, vigorous and physically challenging.
Ashtanga yoga has become very popular with many celebrities and many modified forms of Ashtanga have been introduced, such as Power Yoga and YogaFit.
Iyengar yoga
In a typical Iyengar class, poses are held much longer than in other schools of yoga, in an effort to pay closer attention to the precise alignment of the feet, hands, arms, legs, pelvis and spine within each asana. Another characteristic of Iyengar yoga is the use of props, such as blocks, belts, bolsters, chairs and blankets. These are used to accommodate injuries, tightness or structural imbalances, as well as teach the student how to move into a posture properly and safely.
Various forms of breathing are not emphasized until the student is fairly advanced. Because of the precise nature of Iyengar yoga, the pace of a class generally tends to be slow to moderate in speed, but can be very demanding because of this focus on precision.
See our class times and fees on our Yoga page or alternatively, get in touch if you would like to find out more!