The Lineage of Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga is a time-honored practice deeply rooted in the tradition of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, evolving through centuries of dedicated transmission from teacher to student. This lineage represents an unbroken chain of wisdom, technique, and philosophy, passed down with care and reverence.

Origins of Ashtanga Yoga: The Ashtanga Yoga system as we know it today finds its origins in the teachings of T. Krishnamacharya, often referred to as the father of modern yoga. In the early 20th century, Krishnamacharya revived and systematized ancient yoga practices, blending breath (pranayama), movement (asana), and philosophy into a dynamic and meditative flow.

Sri K. Pattabhi Jois

Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, a devoted student of Krishnamacharya, dedicated his life to the study and teaching of Ashtanga Yoga. In 1948, he established the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India, where he developed the six progressive series of the practice. These sequences combine specific postures (asanas) linked through breath and movement (vinyasa), creating a moving meditation that purifies the body and mind. Pattabhi Jois passed away on May 18, 2009, leaving behind a legacy that transformed yoga into a global phenomenon.

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Saraswathi Jois

Saraswathi Jois, Pattabhi Jois's daughter, has played a vital role in the Ashtanga Yoga lineage. As one of the first women to practice and teach Ashtanga Yoga publicly, Saraswathi has inspired countless practitioners worldwide. She has upheld the teachings of her father while fostering accessibility and inclusivity in yoga. Saraswathi continues to teach in Mysore, India, sharing the profound benefits of this practice with her students.

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Sharath Jois

Sharath Jois, Pattabhi Jois’s grandson and Saraswathi’s son, became the principal teacher of Ashtanga Yoga following Pattabhi Jois’s passing in 2009. Sharath devoted his life to teaching Ashtanga Yoga, ensuring the integrity of the tradition while adapting it to modern practitioners. Under his leadership, the Shala in Mysore continued to thrive as a pilgrimage site for students worldwide.

On November 11, 2024, the Ashtanga Yoga community experienced an immense loss with the passing of Sharath Jois in Virginia. Krista Shirley was in Charlottesville studying with Sharath at the time and is deeply grateful to have spent those final moments with him before his passing. Sharath’s legacy continues to guide and inspire practitioners around the world.

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Krista Shirley

Krista Shirley is privileged to be a part of this sacred lineage. She began her annual pilgrimages to Mysore, India, in 2005, studying first with Sri K. Pattabhi Jois and later with Sharath Jois. In February 2009, Krista was honored to receive Level Two Authorization from both Pattabhi Jois and Sharath Jois, reflecting her dedication to preserving and sharing the authenticity of Ashtanga Yoga.
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As a Level Two Authorized teacher, Krista brings over two decades of experience to her teaching at The Yoga Shala in Maitland, Florida. Her commitment to parampara shines through in her ability to guide students with care and respect for the tradition while making it accessible to practitioners of all levels.

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Join the Tradition

By practicing Ashtanga Yoga, you become part of a living tradition that connects generations of yogis. Whether you are new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, you are invited to explore this transformative journey at The Yoga Shala.

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