If you’ve ever wondered what sets Ashtanga yoga apart from other styles, or how to get started whether you’re in Cork or tuning in from home, you’re in the right place. Most people who practise Ashtanga describe it as intense, active, and greatly progressive. This dynamic form of yoga not only helps in building physical strength and flexibility, but helps in improving concentration and brings mental clarity.
In this article, we offer an overview of Ashtanga Yoga including its advantages, and how to access our weekly led Ashtanga sessions either in Cork or online with a free 10-day trial for new members.
What Is Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga Yoga is one of the more traditional approaches to yoga that combines the challenges of different postures along with breathing for a defined sequence. This method creates significant physical heat in the body, as well as producing a purifying sweat that detoxifies muscles and internal organs.
It’s rooted in the teachings of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, who developed the modern form of the practice in Mysore, India.
Ashtanga has six main sets of poses, called series, and each is a distinct sequence of poses. They are as follows:
- Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa) – Cleansing and aligning the body
- Intermediate Series – Fortifying the nervous system
- Advanced Series – Highly demanded, flexible and strong postures
All newcomers to Ashtanga usually begin with the Primary Series since it’s the most customisable and can be tailored to different skill levels.
Key Principles of Ashtanga Yoga
- Vinyasa: Breath synchronised with flowing movement
- Ujjayi Breath: Audible, steady breathing that aids in maintaining heat and focus
- Drishti: Concentration gazing point
- Bandhas: Locks of inner energy system within the body which strengthen the body internally and increase resiliency.
They all combine to form a moving meditation which simultaneously challenges the body while calming the mind
Is Ashtanga Yoga Right for Beginners?
Yes—Ashtanga yoga can be beginner-friendly, especially in a led class environment where the teacher breaks down the poses and transitions. While it’s a physically demanding style, it’s also incredibly rewarding. As you progress week by week, you’ll build endurance, discipline, and deep body awareness.
At our yoga studio in Cork and through our online yoga classes, we offer a 6-week Ashtanga Led Series where our experienced teacher guides you through the Primary Series in a progressive, accessible way.
Join Ashtanga Yoga in Cork or Online
Whether you’re new to Ashtanga or returning to the mat, we’ve created a supportive environment for learning—both in-person in Cork and from the comfort of your own home.
Our Ashtanga Yoga Offerings:
- In Cork Yoga Studio: Weekly led Ashtanga class with posture breakdowns and modifications
- Online: Access from anywhere with our Ashtanga online class, perfect for staying consistent even on busy days
- Free Trial: New to us? Try our online yoga classes free for 10 days—no strings attached
Start your free trial here and explore the practice that’s changed millions of lives.
Why People Love This Style of Yoga
Here are just a few of the benefits that draw people to this system:
✅ Builds Strength & Flexibility: It works your full body, especially your core and upper body.
✅ Improves Focus: The breath and movement coordination sharpens mental clarity.
✅ Creates Routine: Repeating the sequence each session develops discipline and structure.
✅ Supports Personal Growth: Each posture becomes a milestone as you deepen your practice.
Many students describe it as a physical and mental anchor—something they return to again and again for clarity and energy.
Online Ashtanga Yoga: Is It Effective?
Absolutely. Our Ashtanga yoga online classes are designed with clear guidance, real-time cues, and posture breakdowns that bring the studio experience to your screen. Whether you’re in Cork or across Ireland, our online yoga Cork community offers accountability and inspiration.
You can follow the 6-week Ashtanga breakdown with the same structure and support as in-person classes. Perfect for those who can’t attend a physical class but still want to experience the depth of this lineage.
Final Thoughts: Your Journey Starts Here
Ashtanga yoga is more than just a workout—it’s a lifelong journey of breath, movement, and presence. Whether you’re looking to build physical strength, calm a busy mind, or dive deeper into yoga philosophy, this style offers a holistic path.
And you don’t have to do it alone. Join our vibrant community in Cork or online, and let us support you every step of the way.
🎉 New to us? Claim your 10-day free trial now and join our weekly led Ashtanga yoga online classses.
