Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (Guruji) teaches Ashtanga Yoga from his home in Southern India, as he has done for almost 70 years.

Nina and I spent five years living in India to study directly with Guruji and Guruji’s grandson, Sharath. Now we’re back to share what we’ve learned. We began this practice together and we teach together. As a team we are more effective than either would be singly and it’s more fun.

Nina brings to the yoga shala 15 years of “hands on” bodywork experience and 10 years experience keeping Olaf out of trouble.

Olaf is one of the few teachers in America certified to teach by Guruji and the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute (AYRI).

Our teacher, Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, is fond of saying, "Yoga is 99% practice, 1% theory."

As for the 1%, to the left is an outline of the eight limbs that comprise this ancient science.

Yoga is not a religion and can be practiced regardless of personal religious beliefs. Rather, it is a method for self inquiry characterized by radiant physical health and a clear, focused and peaceful state of mind.

The 99% practice begins with asana (posture). Yogasana range from simple to complex and are divided into six series. Ashtanga Yoga asana as taught by Pattabhi Jois involves a synchronization of breath with movement known as vinyasa. The linking of specific postures with accompanying breathing method produce a profound internal heat that strengthens, cleanses and purifies.

Learning this yoga method requires patience, a commitment to learn the sequence of poses and regular practice. Practice may be done six days per week with the exception of new and full moon days. Women will also take three days of rest for their menses.