Tuesday morning at 7 AM, the upper floor of Bharatha Yoga Shala transforms into a women-only sanctuary. Women-only yoga classes in Mysore provide a comfortable space where cultural considerations meet traditional Ashtanga practice, allowing women to practice without concerns about mixed-gender adjustments.
Bharatha Yoga Shala – Leading Women’s Classes
Location: Lakshmipuram area, Mysore
Women-Only Sessions: Tuesday & Thursday 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Teacher: Female instructor under Acharya Bharat Shetty’s guidance
Contact: +91 9886091291
Pricing: 1,200 per class, 15,000 monthly unlimited
Bharatha Yoga’s women-only sessions focus on therapeutic sequences, particularly beneficial for PCOS, menstrual irregularities, and hormonal balance. The all-female environment encourages open discussion about practice modifications during different life phases.
Traditional Considerations for Women’s Practice
Many Indian families prefer women-only yoga classes for cultural comfort. These sessions address specific concerns like practicing during menstruation, pregnancy modifications, and post-childbirth recovery.
Menstrual Practice Guidelines:
– Days 1-3: Gentle restorative poses only
– No inversions during heavy flow days
– Modified sun salutations without jump-backs
– Focus on pranayama and meditation
Prenatal Yoga Programs
Several Mysore shalas offer prenatal classes exclusively for women. Bharatha Yoga’s Arogya program includes specialized prenatal sequences designed for each trimester.
Prenatal Class Schedule:
Monday & Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Pricing: 8,000 for 8-week program
Includes: Modified asana practice, breathing techniques, labor preparation
Women’s Health-Focused Programs
PCOS/PCOD Management:
Bharatha Yoga’s Arogya program specifically addresses hormonal imbalances through targeted asana sequences and pranayama practices.
Duration: 3-week intensive program
Schedule: Monday to Saturday, 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM
Cost: 12,000 including consultation
Includes: Dietary guidelines, stress management techniques
Mixed Shalas with Female Teachers
Aananda Yoga Bharata (Gokulam):
While not exclusively women-only, they offer female instructor-led sessions on request. The shala maintains a respectful environment with clear boundaries during adjustments.
Contact: Available through yogabharata.com
Female instructor sessions: By appointment
Pricing: 800 per class
Cultural Sensitivities and Adjustments
Women-only yoga classes in Mysore understand cultural nuances around physical touch. Female teachers provide adjustments that respect personal boundaries while maintaining the integrity of traditional Ashtanga instruction.
Adjustment Philosophy:
– Always ask permission before physical adjustments
– Clear communication about comfort levels
– Alternative verbal cues when physical assists aren’t preferred
– Respect for religious/cultural practices
What to Wear
Women-only classes allow for more relaxed dress codes while maintaining modesty. Recommended attire includes:
– Fitted t-shirts or tank tops
– Leggings or yoga pants (avoid loose clothing)
– Sports bra (essential for Ashtanga practice)
– Hair ties for long hair
– Light shawl for final relaxation
Booking and Advance Planning
Women-only sessions often have limited capacity (8-12 students) for personalized attention. Book at least one week in advance, especially during peak season (November-February).
Booking Process:
1. Email or WhatsApp the shala directly
2. Specify women-only class preference
3. Mention any health conditions or experience level
4. Confirm payment method (cash preferred)
Accommodation Near Women-Friendly Shalas
Female-Only Guest Houses:
– Zostel Mysore (female dormitories): 600-800 per night
– Green Hotel (women-only floors): 2,500-3,500 per night
– Several homestays in Gokulam offer women-only accommodations
Many yoga guest houses understand the need for safe, comfortable accommodation for solo female travelers.
Safety and Transportation
Early Morning Safety:
Women-only classes typically start early (6:30-7:00 AM). Plan transportation in advance:
– Pre-arrange auto-rickshaw pickup: 100-150
– Walk in groups when staying in Gokulam
– Use well-lit main roads
– Keep accommodation contact details handy
Monthly Programs vs Drop-ins
For women planning extended stays, monthly packages offer better value and community building. The consistent group creates supportive friendships among international and local practitioners.
Monthly Benefits:
– 20-30% cost savings
– Consistent teacher-student relationship
– Progressive learning appropriate for women’s needs
– Community support system
Seasonal Considerations
October through March sees the highest enrollment in women-only classes. International female students often plan their Mysore visits during these cooler months.
Monsoon season (June-September) offers smaller class sizes and more personalized attention, though humidity can be challenging for beginners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there completely women-only yoga shalas in Mysore?
Most established shalas are co-educational but offer dedicated women-only sessions. Bharatha Yoga Shala provides the most comprehensive women-only programming in traditional Ashtanga.
Can male teachers instruct women-only classes?
Generally no. Women-only classes in Mysore are taught by female instructors or under female supervision to maintain cultural comfort and appropriate adjustments.
How do I handle menstruation during intensive yoga programs?
Inform your teacher about your cycle. Traditional practice suggests avoiding inversions and vigorous practice during heavy flow days. Most teachers provide alternative sequences.
Are these classes suitable for pregnant women?
Women-only classes often accommodate pregnant students with modifications. However, specific prenatal programs like Bharatha’s Arogya are recommended for comprehensive care.
What’s the age range in women-only classes?
Typically 20-55 years, with beginners and experienced practitioners. The supportive environment welcomes women at different life stages, from students to mothers to professionals.
Last Updated: March 2025
Next Update: Before summer season starts