Josh Pryor
The Spirit of the Matter
Pre-order · new 2026 edition

An ashram for the modern age

Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga practised in a Mysore style setting represents a life-long and complete approach to yoga for all people.
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Yoga is recognition of the higher Self,
and you are the architect of your experience.

Dawn on the river

Practice and metaphysics

If you wish your mind to be clear and joyous, if you wish to retain high mental states, then the body must come along for the ride.

  • The primary series is for yoga therapy, called yoga cikitsā
  • The intermediate series is for energy purification, nadī śodhana
  • The advanced series is for demonstration, sthira bhāga
Read a passage
“I revere this vision of the true Self which is revealed at the lotus feet of the guru-s, causing joyful conditions and all good things.”
Carved temple

Yoga Tārāvalī

The Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga opening chant, recited by thousands of yoga students each morning, starts with a verse, or śloka, from the Sanskrit text named Yoga Tārāvalī.

I have used words faithful to the original while alive to the needs of students currently practising. This title translates as “cosmic waves of integration” or “an array of stars about yoga”.

See how it reads
“You are the ever-existing witness, you are the author, the scientist, the artist, the translator, the illustrator.”
“
It is a series of techniques which people can test for themselves and thereby know the truth.
From the Preface · The Spirit of the Matter

Readings

Articles from joshpryor.com.au
Practice

Daily Repetition Cultivates Skill Beyond Thought

Practitioners roll out their mats in the same spot they occupied yesterday, and the day before, and countless days stretching back through months and years.
Philosophy

A Fresh Look at Ignorance

Avidyā is the ultimate error, the root of all mistakes, and the word itself translates as the absence of The Knowledge.
The body

Perfection of the Body

You are meant to develop the body over your entire life, becoming more fit and agile every year until at least age 101.
The Spirit of the Matter cover
Pre-order · new 2026 edition

The Spirit of the Matter

Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga and the metaphysics of Yoga Tārāvalī
  • A modern translation of an 8th century text called Yoga Tārāvalī
  • A blend of modern research on interoception and fascial remodelling, as well as tales from the mother land
  • Mysore style, the most inclusive form of yoga class, perfect for families, people with disability, athletes, beginners, and people of any age

A great book for yoga enthusiasts, studio owners, and spiritual seekers who wish to move beyond the standard Westernised flavours of yoga, into the deep awareness and intentions of those who initiated yoga itself.

Josh Pryor’s The Spirit of the Matter is a refreshing new contribution to Ashtanga Yoga … Pryor’s approach is guided by reason and a spirit of exploration rather than dogma.Gregor Maehle
AU$35paperbackPre-order

Pre-order now and your signed copy of the new 2026 edition is posted when the first print run arrives, within a month or two. AU$35 within Australia, AU$45 overseas.

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Letters

Occasional articles

Notes on the practice and the texts, now and then, with word of the new edition as it arrives.