Master Ashtanga Primary Series

Experience the Intelligence Behind the Tradition

Discover the deeper essence of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga through the lens of physiotherapy, and movement science. Learn to move with fluidity, safety, and strength—without unnecessary tension.

What You’ll Learn?

  • Apply a Physiotherapy-Based Approach to Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
    Learn how to modify and adapt postures using biomechanical principles that support joint health, spinal mobility, and long-term sustainability.

  • Practice Ashtanga Intelligently & Safely

    Go beyond rote repetition. Understand the anatomical and physiological logic behind each posture, transition, and sequence.

  • Understand the Purpose Behind Each Movement
    This is not just a follow-along class. Each practice is an educational experience that deepens your understanding of breath, bandha, and movement efficiency.

  • Make Advanced Postures Accessible to All

    Explore simplified, safe variations of challenging poses—without compromising their benefits or integrity.

  • Develop Internal Strength & Control, Not Tension

    Learn to engage the right muscles at the right time using co-activation techniques rooted in physiotherapy and movement science.

  • Bridge Tradition with Modern Knowledge
    Integrate the wisdom of Ashtanga with contemporary physiotherapy, making this practice safer, more effective, and relevant for modern bodies.

This is not a departure from tradition—it’s a return to what Ashtanga was meant to be


Simon Borg-Olivier studied extensively with the three foremost students of Sri T. Krishnamacharya—B.K.S. Iyengar, T.K.V. Desikachar, and Sri K. Pattabhi Jois—including time spent training in Mysore in the 1980s. With over 40 years of yoga teaching experience and 30 years as a movement-based physiotherapist, Simon brings a rare blend of traditional lineage and modern scientific insight.

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Practice Ashtanga Intelligently

Purpose & Precision for Health & Longevity

Traditional Ashtanga Yoga is powerful—but without guidance rooted in anatomy and physiology, it can also be punishing. Simon’s approach helps you preserve the beauty of the system while training in a way that supports your body for life.

This course isn't a departure from tradition—it’s a bridge between classical wisdom and modern science, built to help you practice Ashtanga for life.


Master the Primary Series with Scientific Precision

Learn every posture and vinyasa of the traditional Primary Series through the lens of physiotherapy, biomechanics, and movement science—not just shape and form.


Build Strength & Flexibility Without Strain

Discover how to activate the right muscles at the right time for safe, fluid movement. Develop real flexibility without overstretching or collapsing into joints.


Make Ashtanga Accessible to Every Body

Simon’s modifications and intelligent progressions allow anyone—regardless of age, strength, or injury—to experience the benefits of Ashtanga without risk or intimidation.

THE PROBLEM:

Rigid Practice, Real Injuries

While Ashtanga is an incredible system of breath and movement, research shows that 62% of practitioners have suffered musculoskeletal injuries lasting over a month—especially in the hips, hamstrings, knees, and lower back.

This often comes from:

  • Overemphasis on form without awareness of function.

  • Lack of modifications or progressions for individual needs.

  • Repetition of demanding movements without joint preparation.

  • Misunderstanding of breath mechanics in postures.

THE SOLUTION:

Intelligent Ashtanga for the Modern Body

Simon’s approach keeps the essence and structure of traditional Ashtanga, while introducing physiotherapy-based modifications and biomechanically sound alternatives to support long-term health.

You’ll learn how to:

  • Adapt postures safely without losing their power or purpose.

  • Build core strength and flexibility without force or strain.

  • Understand the biomechanics of each vinyasa transition and posture.

  • Breathe in a way that supports your nervous system and internal health.

  • Practice the entire Primary Series—or accessible variations of it—regardless of your level, flexibility, or limitations

Who Is This Course For

Whether you're already practicing the Ashtanga system or you're curious but unsure where to begin, this course will meet you where you are—offering depth, safety, and adaptability.

It’s ideal for:

  • Dedicated Ashtanga Practitioners who want to refine their practice with a more therapeutic, anatomy-based approach that protects joints and supports long-term vitality.

  • Yoga Teachers & Educators looking to understand the biomechanics behind each pose in the Primary Series to better support their students and prevent injury.

  • Beginners Curious About Ashtanga who may have felt intimidated by the system or unable to access it—Simon provides intelligent modifications to make it safe and accessible.

  • Anyone Who Wants to Marry Tradition with Science. If you’ve ever felt that modern yoga lacks depth or that traditional yoga lacks accessibility—this course brings both together.

This Course Is Also Ideal If You’re Experiencing...

  • Recurring Pain or Discomfort in Practice especially in the lower back, knees, hips, shoulders, or wrists—areas often strained in traditional Ashtanga practice.

  • Injuries from Repetitive Movement. Struggling with long-term issues from over-practicing or forcing into advanced poses without sufficient preparation or understanding.

  • Rigid or Unadaptable Ashtanga Routines. Feeling boxed in by the “one-size-fits-all” structure of the Primary Series and unsure how to modify postures safely.

  • Lack of Clear Understanding in Poses. Going through the motions without knowing how to activate the right muscles or where to focus your effort and attention.

What’s Inside the Course?

This course features workshop-style lectures on every major vinyasa (set of postures, movements, and breathing). Simon breaks down each posture’s purpose and possible hazards, offering safe, therapeutic modifications that align with modern needs—especially for those affected by sedentary lifestyles. Each session includes two practitioners demonstrating at different levels, giving you visual clarity and adaptable guidance no matter your experience.

In addition to the full Primary Series, this course also includes select postures from the Second and Third Series, which are necessary to practice even for first-series practitioners to compensate for the problems associated with living in the modern world, especially the effects of a predominantly sedentary chair lifestyle.

Simon also provides detailed insights into:

  • How to apply 18 internal bandhas to enhance circulation, strength, and energy flow

  • The purpose and application of drishti (eye gaze)

  • How to progress intelligently through traditional sequences

  • How to adapt advanced poses safely—even if you're new or working with limitations

20+ Hours of Expert-Led Instruction

Stream over 20 hours of comprehensive, workshop-style lectures and visually guided practices—featuring detailed breakdowns of each vinyasa, safe modifications, and progressive versions of every posture in the Primary Series.

Lifetime Access to a Living Practice

Watch, rewatch, and evolve your practice over time. With lifetime access to all materials, you’ll be able to revisit lectures, refine alignment, and grow your understanding at your own pace—no pressure, no deadlines.


Traditional Practice, Modern Insight

Learn the full Ashtanga sequence from a physiotherapist’s lens. Explore 33 key sequences with advanced anatomical explanations, bandha techniques, breathing (pranayama), drishti, and movement intelligence that respects your body’s needs.

Whether you're practicing alone or teaching others, you’ll gain a complete physiological and biomechanical understanding of the Ashtanga system—far beyond what’s typically offered in led classes or Mysore-style sessions.

This is not just a follow-along class—it’s an educational deep dive into one of the world’s most structured yoga systems, reimagined with precision, care, and accessibility in mind.

Course Curriculum

PART A: Introduction

- Introductory Lecture (Part 1)

- Introductory Lecture (Part 2)

PART B: Primary (PS) Series Interactive Lectures

- Surya Namaskar A (‘Sun Salutation A’)

- Surya Namaskar B (‘Sun Salutation B’)

- Padangushtha Vinyasa (‘Big Toe Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Trikona Vinyasa (‘Triangle Sequence’)

- Parsvakona Vinyasa (‘Side Angle Sequence’)

- Prasarita Padottana Vinyasa (‘Wide Angle Standing Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Parsvottana vinyasa (‘One-legged Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Eka Pada Padangushtha Vinyasa (‘One-legged Standing Big Toe Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Ardha Baddha Padmottana Vinyasa (‘Half Bound Lotus Standing Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Virabhadrasana Vinyasa (‘Warrior Sequence’)

- Paschimottana Vinyasa (‘Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Purvottana Vinyasa (‘Upward-facing Plank Sequence’)

- Ardha Baddha Padma Paschimottana Vinyasa (‘Half Bound Lotus Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Triang Mukha Eka Pada Paschimottana Vinyasa (‘Three Limbs Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Janu Sirsa Vinyasa (‘Head to Knee Sequence’)

- Marichya Vinyasa (‘Sage Marichya’s Sequence’)

- Nava Vinyasa (‘Boat Sequence’)

- Bhuja Pida Vinyasa (‘Shoulder Pressing Sequence’)

- Kurma Vinyasa (‘Turtle Sequence’)

- Garbha Pinda Vinyasa (‘Embryo Sequence’)

- Baddha Kona Vinyasa (‘Cobblers Sequence’)

- Upavistha Kona Vinyasa (‘Wide Angle Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Supta Kona Vinyasa (‘Supine Wide Angle Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Supta Padangushtha Vinyasa (‘Supine Big Toe Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Ubhaya Padangushtha Vinyasa (‘Inverted Big Toe Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Urdhva Mukha Paschimottana Vinyasa (‘Inverted Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Setu Bandha Vinyasa (‘Bridge Sequence’)

- Urdhva Dhanura Vinyasa (‘Inverted Bow Sequence’)

- Paschimottana Vinyasa (‘Post Back-bending Forward-bend Sequence’)

- Sarvanga Vinyasa (‘Shoulderstand Sequence’)

- Sirsa Vinyasa (‘Headstand Sequence’)

- Padma Vinyasa (‘Lotus Finishing Sequence’)

- Sava Vinyasa (‘Supine Relaxation Sequence’)

PART C: Supplementary Series (SS) Interactive Lectures

- Simple & Effective Modifications of Postures

- Breathing During Practice

- Advanced breath control

- Drishti and the eye-brain connection

PART D: Lead Practice (LP) Sessions

- Primary Series Guided Practice (98 minute version)

- Primary Series Guided Practice (128 minute version)

My Introduction to this Ashtanga Course

The Ashtanga Vinyasa sequence is a powerful and effective practice of a fixed series of postures traditionally taught on a one-to-one teacher-student basis. In modern times the practice is often taught in large groups as a led practice, where there’s only counting of vinyasas and little to no explanation about what is going on in a posture anatomically and physiologically; or in groups of so-called Mysore style classes where students progress at their own pace with various amounts of guidance from their teacher.

I have taught yoga for over 40 years and have been a practising physiotherapist for three decades. My experience is that many yoga teachers start teaching prematurely without having sufficient knowledge about the anatomy of the modern body. To suit their underlying health conditions, many practitioners need modifications of their postures, which might not be obvious from the outside. So especially in a fixed series like the Ashtanga one, where you are only given few, if any, instructions during the practice, it is imperative to know some functional anatomy and physiology and the possible risks of every pose. The Ashtanga vinyasa sequence can have tremendous benefits, and it is one of the most energising yoga practices if you can do it safely and effectively. With this course, I’d like to help you perform the Ashtanga sequence safely, carefully and effectively.

This course is a bridge between classical wisdom and modern science, built to help you practice Ashtanga for life.

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Why Learn Ashtanga from Simon Borg-Olivier?

Simon Borg-Olivier is not just another Ashtanga teacher. He has practiced the Ashtanga Vinyasa system since the mid-1980s, learning directly from the source during extended stays in India. With over 40 years of teaching experience and more than 30 years as a working physiotherapist, Simon brings a rare combination of deep tradition and modern science into his teaching.

While many modern classes simply count vinyasas or offer minimal guidance in a Mysore-style format, this course gives you in-depth explanations, modifications, and options for all bodies. Whether you’re recovering from injury, dealing with structural imbalances, or simply want to deepen your practice safely, Simon will show you how to practice with intelligence, precision, and care.

This is not a departure from tradition—it’s a return to what Ashtanga was meant to be: a personalised, one-to-one exploration of yoga, grounded in breath, movement, and awareness.

40+ Years of Yoga Expertise


Simon is a world-renowned yoga educator who has taught thousands of students and teachers worldwide.

Scientifically Backed Approach


A qualified physiotherapist, Simon integrates yoga with modern biomechanics for a safe and effective practice.

Ancient Wisdom + Modern Science


Simon’s teachings reveal forgotten knowledge—techniques that many modern teachers overlook.

“I’ve seen firsthand how powerful and transformative the Ashtanga system can be—but I’ve also seen how easily it can lead to injury if taught without anatomical understanding or individual adaptation.” — Simon Borg-Olivier

What other people are saying about Simon...

"From Draining to Energising. A Complete Shift in My Ashtanga Practice"

I've been practising Ashtanga Yoga for many years already, but the information that Simon shared has revolutionised my practise. Now I can practice with so much more ease and after my practice, I feel energised rather than drained. Revolutionary!

George Symonds

"Don’t Let the Green Screen Fool You! The Content is Pure Gold"

At first, I hesitated because the course presentation is a bit dated—but I'm so glad I looked past that. The depth of knowledge Simon brings into every asana is unlike anything I got in my yoga teacher training. He explains how to modify, strengthen, and refine each pose with such precision and clarity. If you're serious about Ashtanga, this course is essential.

David / Yoga teacher

"Safe, Strong & Smart Ashtanga."

Simon makes Ashtanga safe without losing intensity. His detailed explanations help me practice mindfully, intelligently, and safely. Simon always encourages you to listen to your body’s real needs, and be sensible about pushing your limits. Not many teachers can make you practice yoga in a way which challenges you, but keeps you in the safe lane as well.

Eddy / Ashtanga teacher

"An Education in Intelligent Movement"

After years of repeating the primary series, I thought I knew Ashtanga. But Simon’s course opened up a whole new layer of understanding. He doesn’t just show the poses, he teaches you how to move into them from the inside out, making the practice feel both lighter and more powerful.

James

"A New Approach to Ashtanga That Honors Both Tradition & the Modern Body"

Simon’s approach respects the roots of Ashtanga while offering much-needed adaptations for the modern practitioner. His physiotherapy background shines through in every cue, making the sequence safer, smarter, and more effective. I’ve never felt this strong and pain-free in my practice.

Sarah

"Simon’s teaching has an undeniable WOW factor."

I vividly remember my first Yoga Synergy class with Simon in 2006. Despite having practiced yoga for five years already with excellent teachers, Simon’s class had an undeniable WOW factor that has lasted through 13 years of a profound teacher-student relationship. His one-of-a-kind teaching style, warmth, humility, and endless creativity are incomparable. I'm forever indebted to Simon for generously sharing his wisdom. After experiencing Simon, there's simply nowhere else I'd rather go.

Monika Lenkefi / Yoga teacher and director of Izisz Yoga Studio

"The Most Inspiring Yoga Teacher I’ve Ever Met."

Simon is easily the most knowledgeable and inspiring teacher I have ever encountered. His teaching style makes complex concepts easy and enjoyable to learn. My first training with him was so impactful I immediately signed up for another. Simon completely transformed my understanding of yoga, both in teaching and in practice. After training with him, my chronic Raynaud's syndrome—something I’d suffered with for over 20 years—completely resolved. I can't recommend him highly enough.

Charlotte van Bassen

"A Profound and Transformative Yoga Journey."

My teacher training with Simon Borg-Olivier completely transformed my understanding of yoga, deepening my personal practice and my journey of self-inquiry. Simon’s passion, expertise, and unique ability to illuminate yoga’s intricacies—particularly how the spine transitions through poses—was eye-opening and profoundly inspiring. I am forever grateful.

Raphaël Semeteys / YogĀrkana

Still Not Sure?
Watch a Free Lecture From the Course!

Get a sneak peek into the course with this exclusive free session. Experience Simon’s expert teaching first-hand in a full in-depth session, and see how this course can transform your practice before you commit.

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Flexibility

Learn anytime, anywhere. Our courses are accessible 24/7 on any device, allowing you to study at your own pace and fit learning into your schedule.


Lifetime Access

Once enrolled, the course is yours forever. Revisit videos, download materials, and benefit from future updates whenever you need.


Supportive Community

Join our exclusive yoga community platform (HHL) to connect with fellow students, and ask questions. Need extra guidance? Reach out to Simon directly for expert support.

Choose Your Payment Option:

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One-Time Payment

$297

  • Pay in full today and enjoy immediate lifetime access.

14 days full money back guarantee.

2-Month Payment Plan

$149 x2

  • Split your payment over two easy monthly installments.

14 days full money back guarantee.

Enrollment Details

  • Course Duration: Self-paced with lifetime access—study at your own speed and revisit lessons anytime.

  • Total Video Content: 38+ hours, including lectures on yoga philosophy, anatomy, and movement principles, plus guided practices.

  • Course Materials: Downloadable PDF course manual with detailed explanations.

  • Certificate of Completion: Receive an official certificate upon finishing the course, which can be

    used for continuing education and professional development.

  • Access: The course is hosted on our HHL (Health, Happiness & Longevity) Platform. After enrollment, you’ll need to create a free user profile to access all course materials.

  • Pricing: One-time payment ($197 USD) with no recurring fees.

FAQ

What are your qualifications to teach Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga?

Simon Borg-Olivier studied extensively with the three principal students of Sri Krishnamacharya—B.K.S. Iyengar, T.K.V. Desikachar, and Pattabhi Jois. He practiced in Mysore in the 1980s and has been teaching yoga for over 40 years. In addition to his deep roots in traditional Ashtanga, Simon is a movement-based physiotherapist and holds three university degrees in human biology, giving him a rare and powerful blend of traditional knowledge and modern science. His approach makes the Ashtanga system more accessible, safer, and deeply intelligent.

Does the course strictly follow the traditional Ashtanga Primary Series?

Yes—but with important enhancements. Simon teaches the full Primary Series as he learned it in India in the 1980s, while also including key postures from the Second and Third Series to help address modern imbalances. His physiotherapeutic approach makes the traditional practice safer and more effective for the modern body.

What makes this different from other Ashtanga programs?

Simon combines traditional Ashtanga teachings with his deep knowledge of physiotherapy, biomechanics, and breathwork. This unique combination helps you experience the full power of the Ashtanga system without the strain or risk of injury that can come with more rigid, instruction-light formats.

Will I learn how to modify postures for injury or limitation?

Absolutely. One of the core strengths of this course is its therapeutic emphasis. Simon teaches how to modify and adapt each posture to suit different body types, injuries, or physiological conditions. This makes the Ashtanga system accessible to students who might otherwise find it too intense or risky.

Is this course suitable for beginners or only experienced Ashtanga practitioners?

Yes, this course is designed to be accessible to all levels. Each posture is broken down with beginner-friendly adaptations and detailed anatomical guidance. You’ll see two practitioners demonstrating different levels of the practice, making it easy to follow regardless of your experience.

What if I have questions during the course?

You can engage with Simon and the community through HHL’s platform, where discussions and Q&A opportunities are available.

Do I have lifetime access to the course?

Yes! This course includes lifetime access, so you can revisit the material as many times as you like.

Can I download the course materials?

The platform does not currently offer a video download option, but if you need to download the sessions for any reason, just reach out to us, and we’ll send you the videos. Even without downloading, you’ll have lifetime access to all course materials through the HHL Community platform.

Is there a refund policy?

Yes! We offer a full money-back guarantee within the first 14 days if you're not satisfied. This applies only if you have watched no more than three videos.

Why am I being redirected to another website for payment?

This course is hosted on Simon's official community platform, Health, Happiness & Longevity (HHL). When you click to purchase, you'll be redirected to healthhappinesslongevity.co, where you’ll securely complete your payment and access the course.

Still have questions?


Feel free to contact us, and we'll help you decide if this online course aligns with your goals.

Ready to Practice Ashtanga Intelligently?

Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your body and mind. Join me now and discover the benefits for yourself!

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Want to Explore More?

If you’re looking for a different approach, Simon offers a variety of online programs covering yoga, breathwork, movement, and therapy-based practices. Explore all online courses.

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