The AYI was founded by students of Baba Hari Dass under his direction and guidance.
Baba Hari Dass is a master yogi from Northern India who has maintained a vow of silence
since 1952. Ashtanga Yoga classes are offered at Pacific Cultural Center in Santa Cruz
and at Mount Madonna Center in Watsonville California.

About Ashtanga Yoga (AYI Teachings)
Ashtanga Yoga is an ancient system of practice for increased health, well-being
and inner peace. Classes emphasize three branches of classical eight-limbed Ashtanga Yoga
in the tradition of Baba Hari Dass. Asanas (postures) for developing a strong and healthy body;
Pranayama (breathing practices) for calming and focusing on breath, and Meditation for quieting
and stilling the mind.

Asana classes (AYI Schedule) stress integration of body, mind and breath. Rather than forcing,
we allow the body to assume the posture through a conscious, relaxed effort. The union of body, and
breath create a sense of well-being, calmness and peace of mind.

Classes Descriptions:

 

For new and continuing beginning students. Start with class of your choice.

Yoga Intro 1: Traditional Ashtanga Yoga breathing practices, meditation and basic postures.
Every Saturday, 7:30-9:30 am. Taught by certified AYI instructors, see: AYI Schedule. (FREE!)

Yoga 1: Includes guided breathing practices, meditation and basic postures focusing on alignment,
breath awareness and relaxation.

Yoga 1*: Includes guided breathing practices, meditation and basic postures.

Mellow Yoga (Gentle Yoga): Easygoing postures for students with limited flexibility or strength
due to age, injury or health. Includes emphasis on visualization and breath. A gentle basic class
for beginning or continuing students.

Women's Yoga: Same as Yoga 1 just for women.

Prenatal: Geared for the pregnant woman. Most appropriate for women in their 2nd or 3rd trimesters.

Post Partum: Postpartum: Strengthen and tone after childbirth in a supportive class for mothers and infants (4-weeks to 1-year old). Each class also includes exercise and massage for the body.

For experienced students who are familiar with basic postures and want to deepen their practice.

Yoga 2: Intermediate level postures with in-depth focus on alignment and breath.
Teacher style and content varies.

Yoga 2*: Intermediate level postures with basic breathing practices and meditation.

Yoga Vinyasa 2: Flowing and sustained postures to increase strength and breath awareness
and to experience meditation in motion.

Yoga 3: Intermediate level working with sustained postures. In-depth focus on alignment
and breath. Teacher style and content varies.

Wear comfortable clothing that allows free range of motion. Please refrain from eating for at least
2 hours before practice. If you have any physical problems or injuries, please inform the instructor
before class begins.

Private yoga instructions is available with a number of our instructors. If you're interested in setting
up an introductory session, phone the Office and an instructor will call you.

Work exchange positions: or commit to work 8 hours per month for Unlimited Pass.

$12.00 drop in, $55.00 for 5 classes, $95 for 10 classes, $70.00 for Unlimited Monthly pass.

Drop-in Class: $12 per class.

Discount Tickets: $55 for 5 classes; $95 for 10 classes. Discount tickets can be purchased
from your instructor before or after class, or from the Office.

Unlimited Pass: $70 for 4 weeks.

Pre registration is recommended for all series and workshops. Be sure to register at least
one week in advance to avoid a late fee. Contact our Office to preregister: 831-426-8893.