Mysore is known as the home of Astanga Vinyasa Yoga. It is here that Jois has dedicated his life to the practice and teaching of this approach to yoga. This approach is also responsible for the current global yoga popularity, though watered down in many off-shoot forms. One thing is for sure, Sri Jois has stayed true and committed to its teaching in a very clear and thorough manner over the past 65+ years. A visit to Mysore and the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute will reveal this fact. Studying with Pattabhi Jois, or Guruji, and his grandson Sharath, gives one the real flavour of how the practice is. January 2003 saw the AYRI open its doors at a new location after 50 or so years at the "old shala." This new shala is a magnificent structure with a large and bright practice space. Focus, calm and joy permeate through Guruji's and Sharath's teaching. These qualities are the product of yoga and can easily be felt. We are aware that yoga is not merely about the physical. It becomes clear in this approach and their teaching. Patience, focus and dedication lead one to growth and advancement. The ambience created in this space tends to nurture these qualities. If not, the result is one's own personal anguish and disappointment. Guruji will just simply say, "Yes, you come, you do." The maxim, "Practice, practice, practice and all is coming," is to be realized here. Although Guruji is in his 90s, his strength and vitality are great to see and experience.

The shala is open to all levels, from the absolute beginner to the seasoned, returning practitioner. Practice begins at 6am with space for about 60-70 students at a time. If one is arriving new there will probably be a wait time. As one student finishes the next fills the spot. If you like to watch others practicing you may sit there for an hour, otherwise wait time could be 5 to 15 minutes. A look into the room will find a very vibrant and active Guruji and Sharath teaching and adjusting. The approach to teaching here is the "Mysore" style or self practice. Every student learns the sequence of postures, combining the linking movement known as vinyasa. If you are new to the practice, do not know the sequence or have difficulty in poses, you will receive ample attention as is required. Those more familiar and adept with the series will be let practice on.

Adjustments are given when needed and not for the sake of trying to satisfy every student's desires. Through yoga one becomes non-dependent. Teaching is ultimately subtle. Hands-on when needed. Sharath will carefully monitor your practice and let you know when you're ready for new poses or to begin a new series. Commitment and time in practice are required. The key to the best experience there is to come each day and just practice, no expectations. After all, this is yoga and it's our own inner experience. One thing is for sure, both Guruji and Sharath care about yoga, the practice and the student. They are not there to try to push people on or satisfy individual wants. The integrity of the practice is highlighted. And this is why we go to such experienced teachers.
In addition to practicing and studying under the Astanga masters themselves, Guruji and Sharath have also made Sanskrit chanting available to students in the afternoon and Sanskrit language in the morning. This takes place in the shala for registered students at 300 rps.

There is a monthly fee with an additional registration fee the first month you come. A three-month stay at least is recommended, longer if you can is great, and if you only have one month then you are also most welcome. You can register from 4:30-5:30pm, Monday to Friday. Bring a passport photo. If you know for sure you are coming, then it is recommended to write in advance and let them know. To get to the shala, just give any rickshaw driver the following address. This is also where you will write. Enjoy the experience.
Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Sharath Rangaswamy, Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute, 235 8th Cross, 3rd Stage Gokulam, Mysore 570002, Karnataka State, India