introduction to ashtanga yoga course (bookings essential)

Learn the correct sequence of the first series of Ashtanga yoga in a relaxed and informal setting over 4 weeks. This course is for beginners to yoga or those who would like to deepen their understanding of the Ashtanga yoga system. The sequence will be broken down and you will be guided through this dynamic and energy filled style of yoga that coordinates breath and movement. Each week builds on the week before - you will begin to learn the sequence and feel the benefits that practising ashtanga yoga can bring. You will also be given modifications of postures to allow you to personalize your own yoga practice. Once you have completed the course you will be ready to join in the Mysore style and Led/Counted classes.  These courses will be running all year round usually once a month depending on demand.

mysore style / self practice class

Traditionally, yoga has been passed from teacher to student on a one to one basis, where the student is guided through the postures appropriate to the individual building the student’s self practice over time. This method of teaching is still used today in Mysore, India where Sri K Pattabhi Jois taught and now his daughter and grandson carry on this teaching of Ashtanga Yoga.

In the Mysore style class, students practice the sequence of postures as taught to them by their teacher at their own pace. When the student needs guidance, the teacher assists. Its not a guided class where everyone does the same posture at the same time, instead everyone does the same postures, just at their own pace. The room is quiet except for the sound of the breath. Everyone practising together but very much involved in their own practise – their own breath and body. You start to feel the postures for yourself instead of having the teacher tell you what you should be feeling.

With the small class size, each student gets the individual attention they need to develop their practice - like a private session but in a group setting. With a daily practice, the student begins to transform. With dedication and an open mind, the student develops a stronger body, an awareness of their breath that they never had before and a focus they didn’t even know possible.

Once you have completed the Introduction to Ashtanga, 4 week course, you are ready to develop your own self practice, Mysore Style.

led/counted class (beginners ashtanga, half and full primary series)

This style of class the students are guided through the sequence of postures by the teacher - everyone practises the same postures at the same time as the teacher keeps the count and the guides you through the sequence of the Primary series of Ashtanga Yoga. This class is for those who have attended the 4 week Introduction to Ashtanga Course or have had some experience with yoga.

Beginners - just starting out or want a slower paced class

Half primary - been coming a while and want more of a challenge

Full primary - been coming for at least 6 months…fun and fast! Get ready to sweat!

spark postural movement class

Want a new dynamic approach to your gym training? Harry presents modern gym training techniques to develop optimal joint stability, alignment & mobility, and to prevent and rehabilitate injuries. Functional strength means strength that you can use in the complex movements of real life, rather than the linear movements you’re often restricted to in the gym. This is the class everyone should do before they go to a commercial gym or are wanting some inspiration to their current program.  Book your postural assessment with Harry by emailing harry@sparkstudio.org More info go to Spark

private/one to one session

Get your practice broken down specifically for you in a personal one to one session.  We can take the time to work on the postures to suit your body and help you transform your own yoga practice.  This is also available for pairs or small groups.

corporate classes

Yoga fits well into any Corporate Wellness Program as it cultivates energy and counters office-specific health issues.  We can run shorter lunch time classes in your workplace to help create a motivated and relaxed workforce.  Contact us direct if you’d like to find out more.