Shala Culture And Guidelines

If you've learned Ashtanga yoga elsewhere, you may notice some differences in our approach. This is perfectly natural. As we get to know one another, we'll clarify any questions that arise, and we appreciate your respect for our classroom culture.

All Mysore Melbourne students learn gradually and methodically. Even experienced practitioners from other yoga disciplines begin from the foundation with us. Students take responsibility for their own learning by memorizing the practice they're taught and maintaining consistent practice. Your teacher provides individual guidance, introducing each asana one at a time. While you remain responsible for cultivating your own practice, your teacher serves as a mentor—observing, directing attention, and determining your learning pace through the sequence. We encourage cultivating respectful relationships with your teacher, fellow students, and our shared space.

Traditional Ashtanga practitioners typically practice six days weekly, resting consistently on the same day each week (often Sunday), plus both full and new moon days. While practicing less frequently is acceptable, Mysore Melbourne recommends at least four days per week—otherwise it becomes difficult to develop and maintain the appropriate meditative focus. Infrequent, irregular practice often becomes a constant physical struggle with little opportunity to develop yoga's deeper understanding.

Practice with a light digestive system and avoid drinking fluids during practice. Pregnancy is the exception, where fasting and fluid restriction are not recommended.

  • We recommend women rest from practice during the first three days of their menstrual cycle. Since yoga asanas bend and twist the body in unique ways, honoring your body's natural processes during this time is an act of self-respect and care.

    For pregnancy and postpartum, we recommend pausing practice during the first three months of pregnancy and the first three months following birth. After a C-section, please wait at least six months before returning to practice.

    Please inform your teacher if you are pregnant or have recently given birth.

  • Never practice with a fever—rest and stay well-hydrated instead. Please don't come to the studio with any symptoms of communicable illness. Practice at home during this time, being mindful not to deplete your energy.

    When injured, practice sensibly with healing as your focus. This is always possible with thoughtful modifications. If you need guidance on how to adapt your practice, just ask!

  • At Mysore Melbourne, we use hands-on adjustments as one of our teaching tools. We intentionally use adjustments sparingly to promote student independence and ensure teaching sustainability. We encourage you to work through the asanas you've learned independently, without relying on physical assistance. Developing your own relationship with the poses is essential to your practice. Physical guidance from teachers is most effective when used minimally and purposefully.

    If you prefer not to receive adjustments for any reason, simply let us know. We're completely comfortable teaching hands-off.

  • Brief, simple questions can be addressed during class. We regularly schedule conference sessions—dedicated time for students to raise questions and concerns with the teacher.

    For longer conversations, please book and pay for a Personal Consult.

Studio Etiquette

  • Please do not come to the studio if you have any symptoms of communicable illness.

  • Sign in using the iPad every time you attend class.

  • Shower before practice.

  • Avoid wearing perfume, cologne, or scented oils to class.

  • Bring a small, clean hand towel to manage perspiration.

  • Inform your teachers about any health concerns.

  • Apart from necessary interactions with your teacher, maintain silence during practice.

  • Do not use studio walls for handstands, headstands, or backbends.

  • Cultivate respectful relationships with your teacher, fellow students, and our shared space.

  • If the studio is full when you arrive, please let us know you're here and feel free to begin practicing in the foyer. We'll call you in as soon as space becomes available.