Ashtanga Yoga | Free Breathing Ashtanga Yoga

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to improve their flexibility and strength regardless of level. I was never a yogi and used to think Yoga was boring, but that completely changed when I came to Free Breathing Ashtanga Yoga. The studio is located in the heart of Prenzlauerberg in Berlin and is very clean, spacious, and inviting. Initially, I came here as I wanted to further increase my flexibility for Capoeira (which I’ve trained for over a decade) and make my movements more fluid and seamless. Someone told me that Ashtanga might help, and its self-practice method got me interested, so I thought I'd give it a try. After just a few months, not only have my strength and flexibility noticeably increased, but I have a much greater body awareness of areas I used to neglect. I noticed that my hamstrings and hip flexors are tighter than I thought, and my shoulders are a bit stiff. This became clear during postures like the standing balance one where you hold your toe. I realized the strength needed is very different from standard weight training leg days. What sets this studio apart is the personal instruction from Ian, the teacher. He introduces a good amount of new Ashtanga asanas and challenges in each session so you can progress at your own pace, and he gives individual feedback and posture correction, even remembering where I struggled in the previous session. I never expected engaging yoga postures to be this challenging—after a session, I'm literally sweating my butt off as much as I do after lifting my own weights at the gym.

One of the best Yoga Studios in Berlin! 10/10! Definitely check it out :) Only lovely people <3 Profound introduction into Ashtanga Yoga with a cheat sheet for home practice. Ian really takes his time with all of the students. It doesn't matter if you are a beginner, intermediate or go there for a long time. They also occasionally have a potluck on Sundays and there are a variety of classes, but there is also the opportunity for individual guided self-practice, which I really enjoyed. Don't expect a room full of people where everyone looks at the front and does the same movement. All Yogis can have their own flow during class. Ian really knows what he's doing and he taught me how to be my own Guru :)

Ian is a very warm and kind person. If I would live in Pberg, I’d definitely practice here. Attended Petri Räisänen workshop and the organisation was great!

Why Mysore and why here? I have maximum 1-2 hours 'me time' per day, so it crucial that the practice fits - do I feel good, do I like the studio, do I like the teacher, how is the schedule - all important things to consider when your time is precious. *Studio* its got natural light, its clean and doesn't have a funny smell. *Ian* experienced, great humor, he is welcoming and encouraging *Schedule* its the same time window every day, so if you are 5 mins early, you start early. Easy-peasy. This yoga practice is consistent, you are the one who changes. That consistency creates a space for growth and its kinda incredible. Other highlights - I love the community! I see them, they see me. We smile and encourage each other.

Highly recommend, Ian is a professional and very experienced teacher. friendly atmosphere, nice and clean studio. All well organized.*****