Questions and Answers.

I heard that Ashtanga yoga was developed as a practice for teenage boys - is it also appropriate for middle aged men and women?

It is true that in traditional ashrams, physical yoga (asana) were and are taught from a young age to a primarily male audience. However, that misses the point - which is that the practice provides a physical method to begin the process of optimising all aspects of our being - both physical and mental.

Whether we are able to sit in lotus pose or stand on our head on day 1 or day 5,001 or never, is not particularly important. The practice allows us to explore and develop from wherever we start. I have met people with ages from 16 to 73 doing ashtanga yoga.

But it is not for everyone - some people find a yoga practice that is more static and meditative more suited to them.  But I would suggest that this is a choice based on temperament rather than age or gender. For many people ashtanga yoga is an ideal way to channel their active tendencies. It brings health, well being and personal challenge in a way not previously experienced and often far beyond initial expectations.