The studios I teach.
Mysore-Ashtanga Classes
The Mysore program is a unique and traditional way of practicing Ashtanga yoga, named after the city of Mysore, India, where this method was originally taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. Unlike typical yoga classes, Mysore-style sessions are not led by a teacher in a structured class format. Instead, students move through the Ashtanga series at their own pace with individual guidance and adjustments from the teacher.
Key Features of a Mysore Program
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Self-Paced Practice: Students progress through the Ashtanga sequence at their own speed, rather than following along with a teacher’s instructions. This self-led approach allows practitioners to focus more deeply on each posture and connect with their breath.
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Personalized Instruction: While the class is not led in the conventional sense, the teacher provides one-on-one guidance to each student as needed. The instructor may offer adjustments, modifications, and help with challenging postures, which supports a highly customized experience.
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Traditional Ashtanga Series: The Mysore method generally follows the set Ashtanga sequences (Primary Series, Intermediate Series, etc.). Students work on the series that matches their current level and may add new postures gradually, under the teacher's supervision, as they gain strength and flexibility.
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Focus on Tristhāna: Tristhāna refers to three focal points in the Ashtanga practice: breath (using ujjayi breathing), posture (with proper alignment), and gaze (drishti, or a point of focus for each pose). Mysore programs emphasize these elements, encouraging a meditative, focused practice.
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Flexible Class Times: Many Mysore programs offer extended time windows (e.g., 2-4 hours) during which students can come and practice. This format accommodates different schedules and allows students to start and finish as needed within that timeframe.
Benefits of the Mysore Program
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Independence in Practice: Students develop their own practice routine and build confidence in their ability to move through the Ashtanga sequence.
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Enhanced Focus: Without the external instruction that a guided class provides, practitioners have the opportunity to concentrate deeply on their breath and movement.
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Progressive Learning: Teachers add new postures gradually, allowing students to build a solid foundation before advancing, which reduces the risk of injury.
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Community Atmosphere: Mysore programs often foster a sense of community, as students practice side-by-side, sharing the experience without words.
Who is Mysore Suitable For?
Mysore-style classes are suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Beginners may start by learning the first few postures of the Primary Series and can build up their practice over time, while experienced yogis can refine their practice under the watchful eye of a teacher. Mysore is an ideal format for anyone interested in cultivating a dedicated, self-led practice with the support of a teacher when needed.
Pilates
Pilates is a physical fitness system developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates, who initially named it "Contrology." It emphasizes controlled movements, breath work, and core strength to improve overall physical fitness and body awareness. Pilates is designed to enhance flexibility, strength, balance, and postural alignment.
Key Principles of Pilates
Pilates focuses on several foundational principles:
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Concentration: Bringing full attention to each movement.
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Control: Practicing controlled, deliberate movements, which are often slow and precise.
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Centering: Engaging the core or "powerhouse" (which includes the abdominal muscles, lower back, hips, and glutes).
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Flow: Emphasizing fluidity and grace in movements.
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Precision: Performing each movement with a focus on proper form and alignment.
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Breath: Using deep, full breathing to enhance the mind-body connection and provide oxygen to the muscles.
Mat Pilates
Mat Pilates: This form is practiced on the floor using a yoga or Pilates mat. Exercises often incorporate small props, like resistance bands, small weights, or Pilates rings, to add variety and resistance.
Benefits of Pilates
Practicing Pilates can offer a variety of benefits, including:
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Improved Core Strength: The focus on core muscles helps stabilize and strengthen the body.
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Enhanced Flexibility: Many exercises involve stretching and lengthening muscles, which can increase flexibility.
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Better Posture: By strengthening the muscles that support the spine and emphasizing alignment, Pilates can improve posture.
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Reduced Risk of Injury: Pilates helps develop balanced strength, which can reduce the risk of injury, particularly in other forms of exercise or everyday activities.
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Increased Body Awareness: The emphasis on controlled, mindful movements can improve body awareness and coordination.
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Who Can Benefit from Pilates?
Pilates is highly adaptable and can be tailored to suit people of all ages and fitness levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. It’s also popular for rehabilitation purposes, especially for individuals recovering from injuries, because the movements can be modified to accommodate limitations or special needs.
Pilates can be a beneficial complement to other types of exercise, including yoga, strength training, and cardiovascular activities, providing a well-rounded approach to fitness.
Private Session
Get ready to take your yoga practice or pilates training to new heights with our amazing Private Session! Brinkela an expert instructor will guide you through proper alignment and breath techniques, helping you to reconnect and rejuvenate your body like never before. Don't miss out on this incredible - book now to secure your spot and experience the ultimate yoga session!
Helge Solberg
"Brinkela is a very special teacher, truly caring for each one of her students. Down to earth and unpretentious, full of energy. She is creating a yoga community that works together. She genuinely cares about your practice and growth. Brinkela as a teacher is fun, inspiring and always challenging! It makes a big difference when someone has faith in you and motivates you to go further in the asanas, even when you believe you have reached your maximum level."
Venke Vennevik
Brinkela is a very competent, fun and wonderful yogi and pilates instructor. She knows how to create a positive atmosphere in the room. Brinkela welcomes everyone at all levels. She sees each individual student and gives precise guidance.
It quickly becomes easier to achieve increased skills. Her effective teaching method provides a good understanding of all asanas."
Petra Henriete
You know that friend who’s always refreshingly honest, yet with the best intentions? That’s Brinkela. She’s incredible, and her classes are truly valuable. Despite her strictness, her focus isn’t on mere aesthetics like yoga poses; she’s dedicated to genuine learning. I’ve gained immense knowledge both in her class and in everyday life. She’s not just another indifferent teacher; she genuinely cares about our success
❤️