shala notes

The primary goal of AYO Shala is to create space for relaxing and strengthening the body and mind. A space where you can rejuvenate from daily struggles and find peace for deeper internal exploration. We do that by practicing one pointed concentration, self-observation, and compassion through the physical practice of postures. It is an environment where we can quiet ourselves and come out stronger.

Slowing Down:

  • Hatha Yoga is a physical form of Yoga practice and is practiced for purification, concentration, and liberation. Slowing down promotes this process and calms the nerves. Practice of Ashtanga Yoga method is a practice of Hatha Yoga.
  • Please respect your bodies by not rushing during your practice, especially during the finishing postures.
  • Allow the therapeutic and meditative aspects of the experience to emerge.

Attending the Practice:

  • Come to the practice well rested and on empty stomach.
  • Avoid excessive drinking of water before and after the practice. Drinking during the practice is not allowed.
  • Wear comfortable clothes and tie your hair if necessary to avoid unnecessary distractions.
  • If you come to the class after the opening chant, sit down with your breath for a minute before you start.
  • Have a scarf or blanket to prevent rapid temperature loss during your resting time.
  • Come to practice clean and wash your yoga rug and mat frequently.

Opening Hours:

  • Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 7:30am to 9:30am, with the opening chant starting at 7:30am.
  • Classes are Mysore style, that means each student is practicing what was assigned by the teacher.

Moon Days and Holidays:

  • New and full moons are observed and the dates are displayed at the board by the entrance.
  • Holidays and changes in the schedule are also displayed at the board by the entrance.

Library:

  • Books are available for all students to deepen their understanding of Yoga. You can borrow one book  at a time for two weeks. Fill out the registry form when taking a book home.

Ladies:

  • Please observe your monthly holiday and take rest during the first two to three days of your heaviest menstruation.
  • Ladies holiday is a time for introspection and paying special attention to your subtle energies. Respecting the downward flow of Apana Vayu, which is dominant in the body at this time, is essential for women’s Yoga practice.

Practice Attire:

  • Practitioners of all ages, families, young, elderly, and local community members are welcome. Please wear appropriate attire when attending practice.
  • If you’re unsure about what to wear, feel free to ask.

Practice Space:

  • Please respect that the space is intended for quietness.
  • Clean up after yourself.
  • Refrain from bringing phones, smartwatches and other electronics into the practice room.
  • Personal belongings should be stored on the shelves by the entrance or in the lockers.

Shala Fees:

  • Bring your fee to the first class of the month.
  • Fees should be placed in an envelope with your name in a silver box by the entrance.
  • If you do not have an envelope use one from the Shala. Unmarked money will be treated donations.
  • The month starts and ends according to the Gregorian calendar.

AYO shala | donnation box

Monthly studying fee is 10 000 ¥ or 100 $

Student / discounted studying fee is 7 000 ¥ / 70 $

One time entry fee is 2 000 ¥ / 20 $

Student / discounted fee is 1 500 ¥ / 15 $

Location

OIST, Village Center / Ocean View Room

Entry code 431107*