Our story
About Ashtanga Yoga Phulla
A space dedicated to teaching Yoga, both its philosophy and scriptures, and the Ashtanga Yoga method as taught by the Jois family in Mysore, India.
Who is Patrick?
My name is Patrick Nolan, and I help yoga students and teachers develop a deeper understanding of yoga philosophy, Sanskrit, and the scriptures that shape and inform yoga practice. I have been teaching since 2007, and my expertise is rooted in both traditional Ashtanga Yoga and the study of yoga’s philosophical foundations.
I hold Level 2 Authorization from R. Sharath Jois, have made seven study trips to Mysore, India, and have completed extensive training with respected teachers including Kino MacGregor, Tim Feldmann, Richard Freeman, and Mary Taylor.
I have also studied Sanskrit for nine years under teachers such as Lakshmish Bhat, Marcia Solomon, and Suresh Nanjangud, while pursuing in-depth study of Indian philosophy with scholars including Prof. Nagaraja Rao, Prof. M.M. Narasimhan, and Dr. M.A. Jayashree.
Many yoga students and newly certified teachers leave teacher training inspired but hungry for a deeper understanding of philosophy, scripture, and how traditional teachings apply to modern life. I help bridge that gap through dedicated study, practice, and conversation.
Having overcome significant personal challenges — including addiction, childhood trauma, chronic illness, and chronic pain — I have experienced firsthand how yoga can become a powerful path of self-knowledge, resilience, and inner peace. Through years of practice, study, and teaching, I have helped many students advance in their yoga journey, with several going on to become respected teachers themselves.
My approach combines traditional knowledge with practical application. Whether teaching philosophy, scripture, Sanskrit, or asana, I thrive in small-group and one-on-one settings where dialogue, inquiry, and meaningful conversation can flourish. I use stories, analogies, humor, and direct communication to make complex concepts accessible and relevant to everyday life.
I communicate in a way that is down-to-earth, honest, humorous, and deeply caring. Inspired by teachers including Alan Watts, Ram Dass, Richard Freeman, and Prof. Nagaraja Rao, I believe yoga is ultimately a path toward self-knowledge, inner peace, and the transcendence of suffering. I am passionate about preserving yoga’s Indian roots, honoring its traditional teachings, respecting individual dignity, and helping students apply timeless wisdom both on and off the mat.
The practice
What is Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga Yoga is a dynamic, breath-synchronized practice rooted in the teachings of the Jois family of Mysore, India. It follows a fixed sequence of postures linked by breath (vinyasa), creating an internal heat that purifies the body and focuses the mind.
The practice is traditionally taught in the Mysore style — a self-paced format where each student learns the sequence posture by posture, progressing at their own pace under the guidance of a teacher. This personal approach makes Ashtanga accessible to complete beginners and experienced practitioners alike.
Our approach
What we stand for
Traditional method
We teach the Ashtanga sequence as passed down through the Mysore lineage — with respect for its roots and its depth.
Personal guidance
Every student receives individual attention. You move at your own pace, not the class's.
All levels welcome
Whether you've never stepped on a mat or have practiced for years, there is a place for you here.