Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome! Most of our yoga classes — including Ashtanga and Vinyasa — are open to all levels. You don’t need to be flexible or strong to start; yoga is a practice, not a performance. We recommend trying our Trial Class and joining Fundamentals sessions to begin. Let your teacher know you’re new, stay patient, and enjoy the journey.

Mysore-style is the traditional method of learning Ashtanga Yoga, named after the city of Mysore in South India where the practice originated. Unlike a led class, this is a self-paced, teacher-supported approach where students move through a set sequence of postures at their own rhythm.

You’ll receive one-on-one guidance and hands-on support from the teacher within a quiet group setting. New postures are taught progressively and added as your practice and memory develop. You don’t need to know the sequence beforehand—beginners are absolutely welcome.

This method allows for a personalized and sustainable yoga practice, adapted to your level, pace, and physical condition. It encourages focus, discipline, and a deeper connection to breath.

At The Breathing Space, our Mysore program is open to both beginners and seasoned practitioners. We follow the traditional six-day practice schedule, with rest on Saturdays or Sundays (depending on your rhythm), and observe moon days.

Curious about joining our Mysore community? Learn more here.

To experience the full benefits of yoga—not just in your body, but in your mind, emotions, and nervous system—we recommend practicing at least 3 to 6 times per week. A steady routine helps create resilience, mental clarity, and a deeper connection to yourself. But that doesn’t mean more is always better.

Consistency is often more important than frequency. Even short practices done regularly can be profoundly transformative. Let your practice support your life—not overwhelm it. Do what you can, and trust that it’s enough.

Can’t make it into the studio? Explore our video library or our YouTube channel for home practices that keep you connected to your breath and your body, wherever you are.

Women are encouraged to rest or adjust their practice during menstruation, especially during the heaviest or most painful days. Restorative Yoga is always a supportive option, but ultimately you get to choose what feels most nourishing and respectful of your body.

Our classes are generally grounded in the Ashtanga method, focusing on breath, concentration, and self reflection. No music is played during class, and teachers offer hands-on assistance rather than demonstrating from the mat. Every class is an invitation to deepen your practice with presence and self-awareness. Let us know about any injuries, conditions, or if you’re pregnant—your teacher will offer modifications and support.

Ashtanga yoga follows a set sequence of postures learned progressively, often through Mysore-style or led classes. Vinyasa yoga is inspired by Ashtanga and at The Breathing Space these classes are heavily Ashtanga-inspired, but sequences vary from class to class. Both styles emphasize breath and movement, but Ashtanga follows a more traditional structure.

Yoga is a spiritual discipline that focusses on quieting the mind enough to find harmony within – heart, body, mind. It includes teachings on personal behaviour, ethics, physical exercise, breathing techniques, concentration practices, meditation and enlightenment. Deeply rooted in Hindu culture, these teaching stem from ancient scriptural texts that form the basis of Sanatana Dharma. Anyone – irrespective of faith, culture, or ethnicity – can practice yoga.

To book a yoga class at The Breathing Space, simply create a profile on our booking system, Bsport. Once registered, you can view our live schedule and reserve your spot. Payments can be made securely online via bank transfer or credit card.

Yes, cancellations are free up to 8 hours before class begins. Late cancellations will result in the class being deducted from your pass. If you know you can’t make it, please cancel in advance via your Bsport profile so someone else can take your spot.

To cancel your membership, send us an email at least one week before your next scheduled payment. Cancellations must be made via email — it’s your responsibility to cancel on time to avoid charges.

Monthly memberships can be placed on hold once per year with advance notice via email. Unfortunately, class passes (rittenkaarten) cannot be paused or extended. Please plan your purchase according to your schedule.

All memberships and passes can be purchased through our Bsport booking system. If you need help choosing the right pass or have questions about discounts, feel free to contact us at info@thebreathingspace.nl.

We provide high-quality yoga mats, blocks, bolsters, blankets, and other props. If you use a studio mat it is highly appreciated if you use a mat towel to help absorb sweat. If you prefer to use your own mat and you are a studio member, you’re welcome to store it at the studio (space permitting — no bags, please). Please clean your mat and block thoroughly with the provided mat cleaner (brown glass bottles) after use and return all props neatly.

We have two clean and comfortable bathrooms with everything you need to freshen up or change and lockers for your belongings. There are no showers on-site, so we recommend showering before practice if you’re heading to work afterward.

For led classes, doors open 15 minutes before the start time — please arrive on time, as late arrivals will not be permitted. For Mysore practice, doors open at 6:30 am on weekdays and 9:00 am on Sundays; you may arrive anytime during the posted Mysore window.

Wear comfortable, breathable sportswear like leggings, shorts, and fitted tops. Avoid baggy clothing and strong perfumes. Please keep your torso covered during led practice.

Try not to eat for at least two to four hours before class. If needed, a light snack (like a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts) is fine. Come well-hydrated, but avoid drinking during class unless necessary — it can be distracting and interfere with breath awareness.

Yes, in most cases especially if we are just talking about the physical asana practice — yoga can be a powerful support for healing and well-being. Yoga as a greater philosophy can be practiced by anyone, anytime! If you’re unsure about the physical practice, consult your physician first. Let your teacher know about any conditions or limitations, and we’ll work together to find appropriate modifications. We offer a breath-centered, adaptive approach and are happy to guide you in finding a practice that meets your body where it is.

Yes, if you already have an established yoga practice, you may choose to continue and then add appropriate modifications when needed. Generally speaking, the healthier you are physically and mentally before birth, the healthier you will be during birth and post-partum. We encourage open communication with your teacher so your practice can evolve with your needs. Our Gentle Vinyasa, and Restorative classes are particularly supportive during pregnancy for those unfamiliar with a more vigorous practice. If you’re new to yoga, we suggest waiting until after pregnancy to begin a dynamic practice like Ashtanga and traditional Vinyasa.

If you have a fever or contagious illness, please stay home and rest. If you’re feeling under the weather but not contagious, you’re welcome to come to class and practice gently — or simply sit, breathe, and rest. Listening to your body is part of the yoga and sometimes your body wants you to stay at home!

Yoga can support many physical and mental health challenges, especially when practiced consistently and mindfully. Breath regulation, focused movement, and self-awareness help downregulate the nervous system and improve overall resilience as well as mobility. If you’re working with specific issues, consider private yoga sessions or speak with one of our teachers about supportive options.