Do I have to be flexible or physically fit to try Ashtanga yoga?
There are no pre–requisites to practicing Ashtanga yoga. As Pattabhi Jois says, anyone – young or old, weak or strong, healthy or sick – can practice yoga. It doesn’t matter at what age or fitness–level you begin. If you can breathe, you can do yoga. In fact, the Primary Series of Ashtanga yoga is known in Sanskrit as “Yoga Chikitsa”, or yoga therapy. It is a personal, non–competitive practice. The asana sequences in Ashtanga yoga are designed to return the practitioner back to good health. Through the practice of yoga, you will develop the strength, endurance and flexibility you need to be fit and healthy. All you need to do is show up. As Guruji says, “Do your practice and all is coming.” Of course, if you are suffering from an injury, physical limitation or physical condition, you should inform the teacher before beginning practice.
