... a place of spiritual practice & healing
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Booking a Beginners Course
To book our "Introduction to Ashtanga" courses, please create an account from our schedule and booking page and then email us to book. We will then send you bank details to pay a £30 deposit (or full payment of £60) by transfer. We will hold your place without payment for 3 working days. If booking is within 2 weeks of the course start date we require immediate payment for the full amount.
Things to note before your first class
• avoid strong caffeine and heavy food at least 2 hours before the class and make sure you are well hydrated
• we do have mats at the centre to borrow but for hygiene reasons, we prefer you to bring your own mat (we have some eco mats for sale for £20)
• bring a small towel if you sweat easily
• wear comfortable clothing
• arrive 5-10 minutes early; there will be a class running before yours so when you arrive please be as quiet as possible
• please let the teacher know if you have any medical conditions when you arrive
• please bring any oustanding payment in cash or cheque to the first class (we do not accept cards at the centre). Alternatively you can make the final payment by transfer to have cleared by the course start date.
• please note that payment for courses is non-refundable and the classes are non-transferrable
• the gate to the Clapham North Arts Centre is sometimes locked (late evening, early morning and Sundays) - the code is sent to you in your booking confirmation.
• we are at the very last unit within Clapham North Arts Centre - Unit 1R.
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga: Beginners
Ashtanga vinyasa yoga is a dynamic moving meditation resulting in calmness and clarity. It maximizes body tone, encourages weight loss, detoxifies and increases all-round health, flexibility, strength and balance. Click here for more about ashtanga vinyasa yoga.
We offer a number of options for beginners (see below) and recommend whenever possible that students attend our 4 week "Introduction to Ashtanga" course or our weekend intensive, which both firmly set the foundations for the practice.
Ashtanga Beginners
see schedule for times
This class accomodates those who are completely new to ashtanga yoga as well as those with some experience. The first part of the primary series will be taught in depth and the focus will be on technique and refining the postures. From time to time the class will also take a more detailed look at breath control (ujjayi breath), and internal core strength (bandhas).
You can join this class at any time and need to sign up for a minimum of 4 classes, which you can use at any of the beginners classes. We recommend you attend at least 8–12 beginners classes before moving on to the intermediate stage or self practice. Check with the teacher when you feel ready to move on.
Click here for information on beginners workshops.
Beginners 4-week "Introduction to Ashtanga"
Our popular 4-week "Introduction to Ashtanga" course with Gingi Lee, is ideal for those looking for a more intensive and focused approach to starting ashtanga. The course accomodates those who are completely new to ashtanga yoga as well as those who need a refresher. This course introduces the sequential order of postures, breath control (ujjayi breath), and internal core strength (bandhas). This begins the process of self-practice where you learn to be receptive to your own level, speed and breath while being supervised by a teacher. In the end you create a personal practice within the form.
Click here for dates, prices and more information
Beginners Intensive Weekend Workshops
Early Morning (All Levels)
see schedule for times
Primarily a mysore-style self practice class, this class is open to anyone who has memorized the standing postures. If you are a complete beginner, you may prefer to attend some beginners classes or an intensive workshop before coming to the early-morning classes. Classes are small and the teacher will be able to work with you on a one-to-one basis whatever your needs or level. The early-morning classes have a special, quiet and peaceful energy where students practice at their own speed and breath and the teacher works individually with each student. The class starts at 6.30am and students can arrive at any time during the session – the length of the practice varies according to each student.