George Reed
Winchester, Thruxton, Liss
View profile →Yoga styles in Hampshire
Ashtanga
Ashtanga yoga is a dynamic, physically demanding style of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga that links a fixed, set sequence of postures to the breath. It can be either a taught class or a Mysore session where students practice together in a shared room at their own pace while the teacher may make adjustments or give individual guidance .
At a glance
What to know about Ashtanga
- Typical pace
- Usually quite fast, continuous, and rhythmically structured. Movements are tied directly to the breath, meaning you change postures or modify your position with almost every inhalation and exhalation.The exact flow depends on the class format you choose: There is no stopping to explain poses, demonstrate alignment, or rest. Constant Movement: You hold standard postures for exactly five deep breaths before immediately transitioning to the next pose.Duration: The entire Primary Series takes about 75 to 90 minutes.
- Typical intensity
- Do Not Rush: If your breath gets shallow or frantic, you are moving too fast.Take Modifications: It is completely normal to skip the transitional vinyasas (push-ups) if you get fatigued. You can focus on Sound: Listen to the sound of your own throat breathing (Ujjayi) to anchor your speed.
- Experience
- Check the individual class
Choosing a class
Who Ashtanga may suit
Type-A Personalities: People who love structure, routine, and measurable progress thrive here. The fixed sequence allows you to track your growth over time. Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts: It can give an intense workout that builds functional strength, core stability, and deep flexibility. Busy Minds: The fast pace and mandatory focus on breath, gaze, and movement create a "moving meditation." It can encourage overactive thinkers to stay completely in the present moment. Introverts: The Mysore-style format is perfect if you want to practice in a room full of people, yet prefer to be left alone to focus entirely on your own body. Self-Disciplined Individuals: It suits those who enjoy developing a independent, daily home practice rather than relying on a teacher to create new sequences.
Your first session
What a class is like
A structured, dynamic style. It synchronizes breath with a progressive set series of postures The traditional way to practice is Mysore Style where students move through the sequence silently at their own breath pace while a teacher provides individual, hands-on adjustments. Taught or Led Classes are where a teacher counts out the vinyasas (movements) aloud
Live timetable
Ashtanga classes in Hampshire
Current weekly classes published by HYA teachers. Confirm availability and booking details with the teacher before travelling.
| Day and time | Teacher | Location | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday 6:45 am–7:45 am | George Reed | Northbrook Hall Winchester | Details |
| Thursday 6:45 am–7:45 am | George Reed | Thruxton Memorial Hall Thruxton | Details |
| Sunday 10:30 am–11:45 am | George Reed | The TLC dance studio – St Barnabas Hall Southampton | Details |
Ashtanga teachers
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Frequently asked questions
What is the focus in Ashtanga Yoga
The physical practice is built upon three foundational elements that must be maintained simultaneously:Ujjayi Breath: Deep, audible throat breathing that regulates heat and helps maintain focus.Bandhas (Energy Locks): Engaging the pelvic floor (Mula Bandha) and lower abdomen (Uddiyana Bandha) to seal energy and support the core.Drishti (Gaze Point): Fixing the eyes on specific points (like the nose or navel) to draw attention inward and quiet the mind.
What is the Ashtanga Series
Practitioners progress through fixed series at their own pace, only moving to the next level once they have mastered the preceding sequence.Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa): Focuses on "yoga therapy" to align, detoxify, and build strength.Intermediate Series (Nadi Shodhana): Cleanses the nervous system with backbends and inversions.Advanced Series (A, B, C, D / Sthira Bhaga): Integrates intense arm balances and splits for deep stability and grace.
Explore related yoga
Compare the pace, approach and class experience of other styles, or use the class finder to see what is available near you.