Learn about Ashtanga Yoga

Build a strong foundation with Step 1, then deepen your practice through traditional Mysore-style classes.

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Yoga Class Levels offered in Brisbane

Step 1 Ashtanga Yoga Classes

Step 1 Ashtanga Yoga classes at Ashtanga Yoga Shala Brisbane provide the perfect introduction for beginners, newcomers, and returning practitioners. These guided sessions focus on the core principles of Ashtanga Yoga, helping students build strong foundations, confidence, and familiarity with correct alignment and technique before moving on to Mysore Style classes.

Mysore Style Class

Mysore Style classes at Ashtanga Yoga Shala Brisbane are the traditional, self-paced way to deepen your yoga practice. Building on the Step 1 series, students work through the memorised sequence with individual guidance from the teacher, developing consistency, discipline, and a truly personalised practice alongside others of all experience levels.

Step 1 Ashtanga Yoga Classes:

Keeping in mind that ‘The correct preparation for any journey is all important’:

Step 1 Ashtanga Yoga classes are provided for –

beginners to yoga,
newcomers to Ashtanga Yoga,
Ashtanga Yoga practitioners returning to the practice after a long break
and students from other Ashtanga Yoga Schools in Australia or overseas, commencing classes at Ashtanga Yoga Shala, Brisbane.

This is a guided class designed to introduce newcomers to Ashtanga Yoga, as well as introduce those experienced in other styles of Yoga, to the basic principles of Ashtanga Yoga. The class also serves to help the teacher observe and assess the manner in which more experienced students can follow instructions and demonstrate alignment and correct vinyasa technique.

Whilst a reasonable level of fitness is encouraged, you need not be flexible or particularly strong to begin. You do, however, need to be able to move with ease from a standing to a sitting position. The purpose of the Step 1 class is to establish important, fundamental components of Ashtanga Yoga.

Step 1 Students are required to book into classes (‘Step 1 Class Series’).
After the initial 5 x week (one class per week) Step 1 Series program, students can book into another, 5 x week program to build confidence and familiarity with the principles or move into a ‘Mysore Style Class’ if they have completed the program requirements and feel ready.

Make your booking right now!

Mysore Style Class

‘Continuing the Journey’ – the traditional class format for developing a real yoga practice.

Prerequisite: your ability to memorise and work through the Ashtanga Yoga Shala Step 1 practice sequence and have completed the work for the Step 1 class.

Mysore Style is an individually instructed, self-paced class that continues on from the Step 1 Class Series. Here, students with varying ranges of experience practise together, demonstrating regular and committed yoga practice and their ability to integrate new instructions under the guidance and encouragement of the teacher.

This is the traditional class format and the most effective method for developing a yoga practice.

There are various class attendance options available to the Mysore style students, depending on the frequency of attendance.

Attendance at Mysore Style Class is by class bookings only.

(All new enquiries to Ashtanga Yoga Shala will receive information about the Step 1 Class Series, not the Mysore Class Timetable, as Step 1 Class is the required starting point. Current Mysore students who have misplaced their timetable are welcome to request the current Mysore Class Schedule at any time).

Why Step 1 Matters

Ashtanga Yoga is a method based on consistency and self-discipline. Jumping straight into Mysore practice without learning the basics often leads to frustration, imbalance, or even injury. The Step 1 Class Series is not a beginner’s shortcut — it’s a respectful entry point into a lineage that values structure, awareness, and patience.

When you commit to Step 1, you’re not just learning postures — you’re cultivating the focus and self-knowledge that define Ashtanga practice. Students who complete Step 1 describe feeling calmer, stronger, and more prepared to take ownership of their practice when they eventually step onto the Mysore floor.

In the traditional practice of Ashtanga Yoga, progress is meant to unfold gradually. The Sanskrit texts describe two key principles that guide every practitioner: Abhyasa (consistent practice) and Vairagya (non-attachment to results). The Step 1 Class Series reflects these principles perfectly — it encourages patience, humility, and discipline. Each time you repeat the sequence, you refine awareness and strengthen focus, allowing the practice to evolve naturally rather than being forced.

This step-by-step approach is what sets Ashtanga apart from other yoga styles. Rather than moving randomly from one posture to another, students follow a structured method that honours the body’s readiness. As understanding deepens, postures that once felt impossible begin to feel accessible. It’s a process that reminds students that mastery in yoga isn’t about flexibility or performance — it’s about consistency, mindfulness, and showing up with sincerity.

How It Works

Book Your Step 1 Series Class– All new students to Ashtanga Yoga Shala start here.
Learn the Foundations – Develop confidence in breathing, sequencing, and movement.
Move into Mysore Class – Transition into the traditional practice format with personalised instruction.
Sustain Your Practice – Make yoga a steady part of your life.

Why Choose Ashtanga Yoga Shala?

Brisbane’s Oldest Ashtanga School – Serving the community for over 30 years.
Authentic Lineage – Richard completed Teacher Training under Iain Clark, certified by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in India.
Experience – Richard has been teaching for over 25 years and has absorbed knowledge from diverse and interrelated areas including Ayurveda, Science, Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, Traditional; Chinese Medicine, and Bodywork.
Structured Progression – From Step 1 Class to Mysore Class, ensuring safe and steady growth.
Personal Attention – Every student is known by name.
Holistic Benefits – Integration of Yoga with life.
Explore adjunct practices including breathwork, chanting, meditation.
Community Energy – A welcoming environment where discipline and compassion meet.

Announcements & Upcoming Programs

Step 1 Yoga Class Series

Secure Your Spot Now! You will thank yourself later. If not now, when?

The Next Step 1 Class Series at Sunnybank is starting on – Tuesday 6 January 2026 at 6:30 pm.

The Next Step 1 Class Series at Paddington is starting on – Friday 9 January 2026 at 6:00 pm.

Book in Now – by requesting class information today.

You can receive a great deal from this yoga—but first, you’ll need to take a step in, build a connection, and offer what you genuinely have to give.

This is not simply an exercise class.

It is an entry point into the deeper practice of yoga—one that invites sincerity, attention, and the willingness to explore more than just the body.

“I tried one other class before AYS when starting, and I felt like I’d accidentally turned up at an Instagram photo shoot. The moment I walked through the door at AYS I knew I’d found the right place. Straight away. The difference was immediate and palpable.” – B.T 2023

“Richards words of encouragement to bring yoga back into my daily life has seriously helped me mentally and physically. I let go of 6kgs of unwanted weight just in the 5 weeks step one classes. While I might have a way to go, I’m on the path with a teacher that cares and promotes my daily growth. Thanks Ashtanga Yoga Shala.” – B.I 2024

Studio Locations

Yoga Classes Sunnybank

Ashtanga Yoga Shala Classes at Sunnybank are a peaceful haven and an inspiring, supportive space in which to learn, develop and explore an authentic yoga practice.

Classes are led by Richard who offers personalised support and authentic instruction.

Classes offered weekly: Ashtanga Yoga Shala – ‘Step 1 Class Series’ and Ashtanga Yoga Mysore classes.

Yoga Classes Paddington

Ashtanga Yoga Shala Classes at Paddington Hall have been offered consistently for over 20 years.

The Paddington Hall is a humble but large, welcoming space, the atmosphere of which has been infused with energy via the efforts of so many yogis over so many years.

Classes offered weekly: Ashtanga Yoga Shala – ‘Step 1 Class Series’ and Ashtanga Yoga Mysore classes.

The Ashtanga Yoga Shala Ethos

The Ashtanga Yoga Shala logo takes inspiration from the ancient ‘endless knot’ and softens into a heart-like form. Its hues from the marigold flower: golden yellow and deep orange – evoke the flowers traditionally offered in India, symbolising devotion, warmth, and sacred giving. The intertwining lines express the truth of interconnectedness, where no strand exists alone, but each supports and completes the whole. As a symbol, it represents love, compassion, inclusiveness, and continuity of practice. Just as yoga weaves body, breath, and mind into unity, this emblem reflects the Shala’s offering: a space of sacred connection, where practice is lived as devotion and relationship.

Sacred Offering: like marigold flowers on an altar, yoga is an offering of heart and presence. Yoga is not something consumed but something offered
Inclusiveness: all paths and people are welcomed into the fabric of practice. The knot reminds us that yoga unites all aspects of life into wholeness
Continuity: the endless loop reflects the timeless tradition of yoga, ever-renewing. Continuity also means sustainability: practice is not a sprint but a lifelong path.
Compassion and Love in Action: the heart-shaped flow points toward kindness in practice and community. Practice becomes a living expression of love, woven through discipline and devotion.
Interconnectedness: Every thought shapes a mood, every mood shapes an action, and every action leaves an impression: a reminder that our practice is not for ourselves alone, but for how we show up in relationship, family, work, and the world.

The Benefits of Yoga for Brisbane Residents

Life in Brisbane moves at a fast pace — with work, study, and family commitments often leaving little room for rest and reflection. Many locals are turning to Ashtanga Yoga Shala as a way to restore balance, build strength, and cultivate mindfulness amidst the busyness of urban life. Whether you live in the inner city or surrounding suburbs, our yoga classes offer a space to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with what truly matters.

Beginners appreciate our Step 1 classes as a gentle and structured introduction to the Ashtanga method, while more experienced students value the focus and discipline of our Mysore-style practice. Each class combines breath, movement, and concentration to create a sense of calm and clarity that extends far beyond the mat. Many Brisbane students find that regular practice helps reduce stress, sharpen focus, and improve overall wellbeing.

Join one of our upcoming classes and experience why Brisbane residents continue to choose Ashtanga Yoga Shala for an authentic, grounding approach to yoga and self-care.

Popular Areas We Serve

Sunnybank Studio

📍 Address on request

Monday – Saturday : 9am – 9pm
Sunday: CLOSED

Paddington Studio

📍 10 Moreton St, Paddington QLD 4064

Monday – Saturday : 9am – 9pm
Sunday: CLOSED

FAQs – Ashtanga Yoga Brisbane

What makes Ashtanga Unique?

Because the Ashtanga Yoga Shala is something of an exception in the world of yoga, people travel from all over to attend classes. There are students who drive from Burpengary, Redcliffe, Tamborine Mountain, Ipswich, The Bayside and Brookfield to come to class. Ashtanga Yoga Shala warmly welcomes people from all areas and walks of life to join the Shala for an authentic yoga practice, especially those living in nearby and neighbouring suburbs such as Carindale, Eight Mile Plains, Upper Mount Gravatt, Runcorn, Sunnybank Hills, Mount Gravatt, and Rochedale.

How do I book in for the ashtanga yoga classes?

Send an email requesting the latest class times and information

I am pregnant. Is it ok for me to start yoga class?

What is the Step 1 Class Series?

I have an injury or existing medical condition.

Can I try just one class out in case I don’t like it?

I have been practicing Hatha Yoga / “Vinyasa Yoga” already for some time, so do I really need an introductory class?

Yes. Everyone begins with the AYS Step 1 Class Series. You are now learning a specific, traditional method of application and there is an extensive range of checks and balances in place at Ashtanga Yoga Shala.
Many modern yoga classes use improvised sequences and personalised interpretations, which do not reflect correctly structured vinyasa yoga. Step 1 ensures that all students – regardless of previous experience- learn the principles correctly, safely, and in the right order.
If you are already competent in these principles, the teacher will be evaluating your application, and your transition into Mysore class will be straightforward. But Step 1 is the correct place to begin.

Is there a trial class available?

No. A “trial class” is a marketing device, and Ashtanga Yoga Shala does not operate on gimmicks. What I offer here is real yoga, taught with care and decades of continuity. The classes are already priced fairly for the amount of work involved.
A student of yoga is encouraged to reflect on “Asteya” – the principle that honours appropriate exchange, integrity, and not seeking something for nothing.

Blogs

Why Practise Ashtanga Yoga?

Why Should You Practise at Ashtanga Yoga Shala? In a world that moves faster every day, Ashtanga Yoga offers something rare — a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and

AYS Paddington Studio

Experience Authentic Ashtanga Yoga at AYS Paddington Studio Nestled in one of Brisbane’s most charming inner-city suburbs, the Ashtanga Yoga Shala Paddington studio has long been a sanctuary for students

AYS Sunnybank Studio

Discover Authentic Ashtanga Yoga at AYS Sunnybank Studio Tucked within one of Brisbane’s most vibrant and welcoming suburbs, the Ashtanga Yoga Shala Sunnybank studio offers a peaceful retreat for students

I really appreciate all your time and effort over the years. It’s wonderful that you provide a whole yoga practice which challenges and inspires self-awareness, growth and healing. Thank you

I just wanted to send a quick note to say that having recently moved away, the thing I miss most about Brisbane, is yoga with you. I have recently started attending class here, but it is a big mess. Thank you for giving me the knowledge and learning to develop a strong sense of what yoga practice is. My commitment to yoga (as opposed to stretching) was immeasurably strengthened by everything you taught me…but gosh I would love to be able to walk in to the hall in Paddington and roll out my mat!

Firstly, I’d like to really thank you for the instructions you provided through the Step 1 series that I just completed. In such a short period of time, I better understand how to work towards overcoming some long-held limitations/alignment issues I have with forward bends. Not only that, but the introduction to the world of yoga beyond asana is rather interesting!

Your wisdom and care in which you teach yoga has had such a positive influence on me and has certainly made me more self-aware and mindful. I don’t think any amount of words can express how grateful I am…

Thank you for another beautiful year of yoga! Thank you for sharing your wisdom and giving so much of yourself! I have loved every word, every adjustment and every nudge in the right direction!

I was very sceptical about finding a good teacher, but everything worked out even better than I could have imagined and on a personal level the transformation has been enormous. Even though my ego was a bit bruised when I first started attending your classes, …. it …. helped me to understand the construction of the postures (how they are supposed to feel and why something is done a certain way). I really feel like I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be when it comes to yoga practice

What strikes me the most is that now I see your teaching method as very disciplined but with an enormous amount of freedom. I feel very lucky to have been taught by you

We both really enjoyed the classes and are disappointed we couldn’t do more. I am especially grateful as previously (my wife) has been extremely reluctant to do any sort of Yoga due to her current level of flexibility. However, Richard does such a good job of making Ashtanga accessible to all, she is now inspired and practicing with me almost every day

I don’t know if you remember me, but I heard about you, Iain and the Yoga Shala from my friend …. My thoughts often turn to the good times that I spent in Brisbane. I don’t know if or when I will see you again, but I just wanted to reach out across the miles and say thanks from one who has grown from knowing you. Love and Peace

I had been practicing Yoga for some time before arriving to Australia and starting classes at Ashtanga Yoga Shala (AYS) in Brisbane. Since my first class, I was impressed by the knowledge and experience of Richard Clark as a teacher. His dedication and invitation to embrace Yoga not as a physical exercise, but as a philosophy and a means to enhance self-awareness in daily life were both evident and inspiring

I wanted to tell you in person how much your steady support, inspiration, and guidance has meant to me. Thank you for being my teacher. Your consistent and thorough approach has inspired and encouraged me to practice and discover the treasures of yoga. Not to mention to heal (in many different ways) from the most terrible injury of my life

We were here for the Yoga Hike weekend which was facilitated by well-known Yoga Teacher Richard Clark. His depth of knowledge was both eye opening and inspiring

I really enjoy coming to yoga at the Ashtanga Yoga Shala and learning about the practice and history of Ashtanga. Your knowledge of all things yoga and the culture associated with it continues to astound me. I only wish I could remember half the things you’ve said after class ……. Your personal attention to each student in the class is one of the things that I find most important and something that has helped me grow in my yoga practice, physically and spiritually. With much gratitude

Dear Richard, I feel so lucky to have found your School because you strive for excellence, which is a rare enough thing. And because you foster an environment where there is not just an absence of negativity, but a real, unspoken sense of respect shared by everyone in the classes

I wanted to take a moment to thank you, for so many things. I am so fortunate to have found your class, it is very rare in this world to find something that is so real and meaningful. Thank you for your relentless ongoing commitment to us all as students. I’m happy to say that you’ve shown me that yoga is not just exercise and it is now a part of my life

I would like you to know that I am in full gratitude and feel blessed to have found your school. It’s wonderful to feel that I am in the presence of people whom have walked through the fire; rare indeed and I look forward to the further unfoldment of being, through yogashala. Thank you

Just a quick note of thanks for your extraordinary commitment and consistency with the running Ashtanga classes. I am very much enjoying my class and personal practice

I can’t make it to any yoga classes this week. I would never have imagined that yoga would have become soooo important in my life. I feel totally deprived from not being able to be a part of that magical time in the Yoga Hall. I miss it and your wonderful teaching

A huge big thank you to Richard for all his inspiration, patience, motivation, expertise and just the best energy!! We are so lucky to have you. Dankeshon

I feel so grateful for the difference Ashtanga Yoga has brought to areas of my life. It’s like being given a gift! I thank you for that gift that you pass on to others through Yoga. It has given me clarity, a sense of peace and this amazing type of happiness that comes from within and it is an incredible feeling because it is not created by any outside factors like money etc

Thank you for teaching me Ashtanga the for past few months. I really enjoy the energy you create in class and your focus on perfection. The direction you have given me in my Yoga practise has been invaluable. I really enjoyed listening to your discussions at the end of class and participating in the chants

Thank you so much for encouraging me to take the first step

I’m leaving Brisbane tonight, so just wanted to say thanks for all the teachings, practices and knowledge that you’ve shared with me during these two and a half years. I think having practiced Ashtanga Yoga for all this time has had a tremendously positive in my life overall. Improved health, strength of body and mind, better concentration and a more peaceful self in general, even improved reflexes!

Hi Richard. Can I just thank you for thoroughly teaching me the foundations of Ashtanga Yoga! With all due respect, you would have a ‘cow’ if you saw the yoga class I participated in last night up here in another city! Hope all is well