New Students
Whether you've never practiced yoga before or are transitioning from another style, Marsha will guide you safely through the fundamentals of Ashtanga.
Yoga is more than stretching—it’s a powerful practice for body, mind, and spirit. It builds strength, flexibility, and balance while calming the nervous system and relieving stress. With regular practice, you’ll improve focus, boost energy, and feel more grounded in daily life. Yoga meets you exactly where you are and supports you in becoming healthier, happier, and more connected to yourself.
Why practice yoga?
Why choose Ashtanga?
Ashtanga links breath and movement into a powerful, meditative flow that builds strength, focus, and vitality. Whether in Mysore-style or guided classes, you’ll learn at your own pace while cultivating mindfulness and energy.
Why Balance Yoga?
At Balance Yoga Atlanta, you’ll learn Ashtanga in a welcoming, supportive space guided by a skilled teacher with over 25 years of experience who will meet you where you are. Our community makes the practice fun, inspiring, and sustainable—helping you build strength, focus, and inner peace while feeling truly at home on your mat.
Why practice with Marsha McNeight?
Marsha brings over 20 years of dedicated practice and teaching to every class. Her approach is compassionate, knowledgeable, and encouraging—making Ashtanga accessible to all levels.
Helpful tips for beginners
Before you arrive
Register for class and reach out if you have any questions or concerns
Allow yourself to be a beginner
Practice on an empty stomach (no heavy meals 2 hours before)
Wear comfortable, fitted clothing that allows movement
Bring a yoga mat and small towel (mats available to borrow)
During practice
Come as you are! Let yourself be new to the practice.
Be open to being guided but also feel free to ask questions and advocate for yourself.
Practice at your own pace. Be yourself!
Rest whenever needed - this is your practice
Trust you will learn and adapt.
Have fun!
How to get started
We have a few ways for you to begin.
New to Ashtanga Membership
$199
for one month
4 weeks of unlimited classes and a 30-minute private consultation
Private lessons
One-on-one, learn at your pace at the studio or in your home
Beginner Class
Step-by-step intro, no experience needed
Guided Classes
To familiarize yourself with the sequencing before attending Mysore classes
FAQ
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Ashtanga is suitable for complete beginners. In Mysore-style classes, you'll learn at your own pace with personalized instruction. We'll start with basic postures and breathing, gradually building your practice. Sign up for the New to Ashtanga Membership to build a strong foundation.
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Not at all! Do not worry if you cannot touch your toes. You do not need to be flexible, athletic, or experienced to practice Ashtanga. We can modify every posture so it is suitable for your body. I have seen the stiffest of the stiff and there is always a way to make it work. Honestly, the tighter you are, the more you will benefit from the sequence and the breathing. It will be challenging, but you will love it and your body will thank you for it!
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in a Mysore class, you move through your practice at your own pace within a set practice window. The teacher offers individualized guidance and support. If you don’t know the sequence yet, we provide help and cheat sheets.
In a guided class, the teacher leads the entire group breath by breath. Guided classes are a great way to learn the rhythm of Ashtanga, while Mysore practice is where you develop independence and ownership of your practice.
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For some, the best way is to start with private lessons. For one, you can set the time that works best for your life. Secondly, you get the teacher’s fullest attention and they can work with you individually. Third, if you feel self-conscience, being in a one-on-one setting can help you build your confidence.
For others that prefer to be in a group setting, the New to Ashtanga Membership is great because the teacher works with you individually. In a private, you get the teacher’s undivided attention the entire time, and in the mysore class with this membership, the teacher goes back and forth among the other students, but you are the main focus as you are newest student that needs the most help. This membership also includes a 30-minute private/consultation prior to beginning.
For others with past yoga experience, you can jump into a series or guided class and then go from there. The teacher will always serve as a guide to help you along.
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