Why You’re Ready for Mysore (Even If You Don’t Feel Ready)

By Allison Dearling, Live and Breathe Yoga

Let me guess.

You’ve thought about joining a Mysore class…
You’ve peeked in the room once or twice…
Maybe you’ve even told yourself, “One day, when I’m stronger/more flexible/less tired/more consistent… I’ll give it a go.”

But right now?
You don’t feel ready.

And I want to gently (but firmly) tell you this:

You don’t need to feel ready to start.
In fact, Mysore-style practice is how you get ready — in the most supported, empowering, and personalised way possible.

My story: The moment it all clicked

I feel so lucky that I was introduced to Mysore-style practice early in my yoga journey — with one of the world’s most respected Ashtanga teachers, David Keil.

It changed everything for me.

Suddenly, I wasn’t just copying movements in a group. I was learning how to practice. How to listen to my breath. How to take ownership of what I was doing. How to think — not overthink, just be present — and build something that felt truly mine.

Now, more than 20 years later, I still learn from David in the Mysore room. I don’t attend led classes anymore. Not because I think I’ve “outgrown” them — but because Mysore gives me something they simply can’t:

One-to-one support, every single time I step on the mat.

The practice itself is relatively simple. There’s a set sequence. You breathe in, breathe out. You hold each pose for five breaths, then move on.

But your practice is unique. And as I’ve gotten older, that uniqueness has become more important than ever.

I have shoulder issues from an old car accident.

I had a baby later in life.
I’m naturally hypermobile, which means I’ve had to work to build strength, not just chase flexibility. And I want to keep practicing for the long haul — with clarity and care.

These days, I don’t want a one-size-fits-all experience. I want collaboration. I want autonomy. I want choice.
And that’s exactly what Mysore-style offers — and what I love giving to my own students now.

Wait, what is Mysore again?

Quick refresher: Mysore is a self-paced style of practicing Ashtanga yoga, where you learn the sequence gradually, with one-on-one guidance inside a group setting. Everyone’s practicing at their own pace. You’re not following the teacher’s words — you’re following your breath, and the teacher supports you as you go.

It’s not performative.
It’s not competitive.
And it’s definitely not for “experts only.”

Mysore is for anyone who wants to learn, grow, and connect more deeply with their body, breath, and practice.

The biggest misconception about Mysore

The most common thing I hear is:
“I think I’d just get more out of a led class because I don’t have to think as much.”

And I get that. Led classes are great — especially when you’re learning the rhythm and flow of the sequence.

But here’s the thing:
Thinking is the point of Mysore.
Not stressing. Not analysing. Just being with yourself, breath by breath.

Led classes teach you the pattern.
Mysore teaches you how to own it — in a way that fits your life, your energy, and your body.

Still not sure? Here’s what most new Mysore students say after trying it:

• • “I thought I’d feel self-conscious, but actually I felt free.”

• • “It was so quiet and calm — I felt really safe to go at my own pace.”

• • “I didn’t realise how powerful it is to have that one-on-one guidance while I’m practicing.”

• • “I thought I had to ‘know the sequence’ before coming — but now I see this is how you learn it.”

So… how do you start?

This is exactly why I created Inside Ashtanga Yoga.

It’s a warm, structured way in — perfect if you’re curious but unsure, or even if you’ve already started and want to understand more deeply.

You’ll get:

• • A two-hour workshop to understand the why behind the method

• • A full week of guided Mysore-style practice (with support every step of the way)

• • Tools like chanting audio and a Primary Series guide

• • Space to ask questions, reflect, and go at your own pace

• • A supportive, welcoming environment — no pressure, no intimidation

You can learn more or book your spot here: https://www.liveandbreatheyoga.com.au/inside-ashtanga-yoga-workshop-challenge/

In summary?

You don’t have to be bendy, strong, or “advanced” to start Mysore.
You just have to be curious — and willing to try.

That’s it.
We’ll take care of the rest.

Hope to see you in the room.

Allison x