Business Details
21 Years
experience
Traditional Ashtanga Yoga in London
Astanga Yoga London has been dedicated to teaching traditional Ashtanga yoga since 2005, offering a welcoming environment for practitioners of all levels. Our approach emphasizes Mysore self-practice, allowing students to progress at their own pace under personalized guidance. Founded in a renovated space that opened with samosas and tea, we prioritize compassionate teaching and hands-on adjustments while respecting individual preferences. Our team of certified instructors, trained directly by Sharath Jois, brings decades of combined experience in daily Ashtanga practice and pedagogy. We maintain rigorous standards through DBS checks, First Aid qualifications, and specialized training in trauma-informed and inclusive practices.The shala fosters a supportive community where students develop physical strength, mental clarity, and spiritual awareness through breath-synchronized movement. Our commitment to traditional methodology is balanced with modern considerations for accessibility and safety. The space includes a library and kitchen area for student use, creating a second-home atmosphere. Regular workshops and events enhance learning opportunities beyond daily practice. With early morning to evening classes six days a week, we accommodate diverse schedules while maintaining the discipline central to Ashtanga philosophy.
Services
Ashtanga Yoga Classes
Mysore Self-Practice
Teacher Training
Workshops
Community Classes
Trauma-Sensitive Yoga
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- Our instructors are authorized by Sharath Jois, direct lineage holder of Ashtanga yoga
- We offer personalized Mysore self-practice instruction in a supportive community setting
- All teachers hold advanced yoga therapy qualifications and trauma-informed training
- Established shala with 19 years of continuous operation in central London
- Flexible class times from early morning to evening, six days a week
What people say
Supportive community
Experienced teachers
Welcoming environment
Personalized instruction
Healing space
Services
Ashtanga Yoga Classes
Traditional Ashtanga yoga classes follow the authentic Mysore method with personalized instruction. Students learn breath-synchronized sequences at their own pace through one-on-one guidance within a group setting. This approach develops physical strength, mental focus, and spiritual awareness while maintaining safety and proper alignment.
Mysore Self-Practice
Daily Mysore self-practice sessions provide structured environment for individual progress. Instructors offer tailored adjustments and sequential posture instruction while students cultivate independent practice. This traditional format encourages meditative focus and breath awareness through personalized pacing.
Teacher Training
Comprehensive teacher training programs develop skilled instructors through immersive study. Participants receive mentorship in asana sequencing, breathwork, and teaching methodology. Training emphasizes both technical proficiency and philosophical understanding for authentic Ashtanga instruction.
Workshops
Regular workshops explore specific aspects of yoga practice and philosophy. Led by experienced instructors, these sessions offer in-depth study of mantras, philosophy, and advanced techniques. Workshops provide opportunities for community engagement and deeper learning beyond regular classes.
Trauma-Sensitive Yoga
Specialized trauma-sensitive yoga sessions create safe healing environments for vulnerable individuals. Certified facilitators use evidence-based TCTSY methodology to help participants reconnect with their bodies. Classes emphasize choice, empowerment, and mindful movement adapted to individual needs.
People
Hamish Hendry
Founder & Lead Instructor
Certified Ashtanga teacher since 2001 with 30+ years personal practice. Studied directly with Pattabhi Jois and Sharath Jois in Mysore. Combines daily teaching with running the shala and community outreach programs.
Louise Newton
Senior Instructor
Teaching since 2006 after assisting Hamish. Specializes in creating inclusive spaces and trauma-informed practice. Leads weekday mid-morning and Saturday classes while maintaining her own daily practice.
Lauren Munday
Evening Program Instructor
Authorized Level 2 teacher with yoga therapy diploma. Combines Ashtanga instruction with TCTSY trauma-sensitive facilitation. Teaches evening classes and community sessions for vulnerable adults since 2010.
Tom Norrington-Davies
Cover Instructor
KPJAYI Level 2 authorized teacher since 2013. Former restaurant owner who transformed his life through Ashtanga practice. Focuses on making yoga accessible to diverse practitioners with varied schedules.
Questions
What is Mysore-style Ashtanga yoga?
Mysore-style is traditional self-practice where students learn postures individually at their own pace within a group setting, receiving personalized instruction and adjustments.
Are classes suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, we welcome absolute beginners with orientation sessions and gradual posture instruction. No prior experience or memorization required to start.
What should I wear to class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing like leggings/shorts and a vest. Bring a yoga mat and small towel as you'll sweat during practice.
Why do you close on moon days?
We follow traditional Ashtanga practice guidelines that observe moon days (full/new moons) due to increased injury risk, as taught by Pattabhi Jois.
Can I choose my class times?
We offer flexible scheduling with morning, midday, and evening classes six days a week to accommodate different schedules and commitments.
Do you offer adjustments during practice?
Yes, we typically provide hands-on adjustments but respect your choice to decline at any time without explanation or judgment.
