The benefits of a “time effective” Ashtanga practice.

Finding time for a full 90-minute Ashtanga practice can feel like trying to fit a sofa through a doorway that’s just an inch too small—technically possible, but unnecessarily stressful. The good news? A shorter, 45–60 minute practice can be just as effective, rewarding, and maybe even more enjoyable. And thanks to the Mysore method, which allows you to practice at your own pace under a teacher’s guidance, you can adapt your routine without feeling like you’ve committed some kind of yogic crime.

In Mysore-style practice, you don’t have to power through the entire Primary Series every time. Instead, you tailor your practice to fit your time, energy, and needs. Maybe one day, you focus on standing postures and backbends, while another day, you get deeper into seated poses. This flexibility means you can practice more often, with more consistency, rather than skipping sessions because “I don’t have two hours to spare.” And let’s be honest—life isn’t exactly waiting around for us to finish our Marichyasanas.

The magic of a shorter practice is that it forces you to be more focused and intentional. When you only have 45 minutes, there’s no time to sit in downward dog, contemplating your to-do list. You move efficiently, you breathe, you flow—without faff or procrastination. Plus, let’s not overlook the practical perks: less sweat, less exhaustion, and a significantly lower chance of showing up to your next appointment looking like you just wrestled a bear.

Ultimately, Ashtanga is a lifelong practice, not a test of endurance. A well-structured 45-minute session can leave you feeling just as energised and accomplished as a full-length one, with the added bonus of fitting seamlessly into a busy life. So, next time you think, “I don’t have time for practice today,” remind yourself that even a little yoga is always better than none. Your mat doesn’t care how long you stay—it just cares that you show up.

Jake Duckworth