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 5 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 the oustanding payment in cash or cheque to the first class (we do not accept cards at the centre)
• please note that payment for courses is non-refundable and the classes are non-transferrable
• the gate to Clapham North Arts Centre gets locked at 8.30pm so it should be open when you arrive. If for some reason it is locked, please ring the mobile number on the Shala sign at the gate.
• we are at the very last unit within Clapham North Arts Centre - Unit 1R.
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
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...ashtanga beginners
see schedule for timesThis 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 a minimum of 8–12 beginners classes before
moving on to the intermediate stage or self practice. The teacher will advise you as to when you are ready to move on.
Click here for information on beginners workshops.
If you are new to the centre, you can take advantage of our "free introductory offer" by signing up for your first taster class online. You can then buy credit at the centre for ongoing classes. Click here for more information.
beginners 4-week "introduction to ashtanga"
JULY (8–9.30pm THURSDAYS 1, 8, 15, 22) - FULLY BOOKED
SEPTEMBER (8–9.30pm THURSDAYS 9, 16, 23, 30)
OCTOBER (8–9.30pm THURSDAYS 7, 14, 21, 28)
NOVEMBER (8–9.30pm THURSDAYS 4, 11, 18, 25)
8–9.30pm Thursdays with Gingi Lee
Cost: £60
Our popular 4-week "Introduction to
Ashtanga" course, 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 information
beginners intensive weekend workshops
A 2-day intensive weekend workshop with Gingi Lee. Next workshop September.
Click here for information on workshops.
early morning (all levels)
see schedule for timesPrimarily a mysore-style self practice class, this class is open to all levels. It is advisable – though not essential – to have some knowledge of the standing postures. If you are a complete beginner, it is preferable to attend a few evening beginners classes or attend a weekend 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.