What is Iyengar Yoga?
Iyengar Yoga is based on the teachings of the living yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar, author of many books including the classic yoga treatise Light on Yoga.
Iyengar began teaching in Pune, India, in 1936 at the age of 18.
Today, at 91, he continues to teach from his home in India and inspire students all over the world. His daughter, Geeta, and his son, Prashant, are also accomplished teachers and authors of several yoga texts.
The Iyengar family’s teachings are deeply grounded in the yoga sutras of Patanjali, an ancient summation of the path and philosophy of yoga considered to be at least 2,500 years old. B.K.S. Iyengar’s intense practice and over seventy years of teaching have produced significant innovations in the teaching of the art and science of yoga.
Iyengar Yoga, one of the world's most widely-practiced forms, emphasizes correct alignment of all parts of the body within each yoga pose. This precision builds strength and stamina--balance and flexibility--and a new sense of well being.
Achieving meditation in action, students learn to exist fully and vibrantly in the present moment.
View the Brochure "What is Iyengar Yoga?"
Which classes should I take?
Students new to Iyengar Yoga should plan to attend level 1 classes consistently for about 6 months before considering a level 1-2 or a level 2 class. Iyengar method classes systematically cultivate subtle understanding of yogasana (yoga postures) by first introducing the foundations and then gradually addressing their finer points and complexities. Another excellent way to start are the regularly offered Intro Courses, where the basic asanas are broken down into their essential components and there is plenty of room for questions.
In Level 1, you are learning Sarvangasana (Shoulderstand) as your first inversion. Level 2 students are expected to have a solid grasp on the foundations (including Sarvangasana) from prior instruction, as well as knowledge of the appropriate use of props and are ready to begin to practice Sirsasana (Headstand). Consult your level 1 instructor before advancing to a level 1-2 or level 2 class. A Level 3 class requires continuous Sirsasana practice and some ability to self-correct based on independent practice.
What should I know about proper etiquette?
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled class time. This gives you time to sign in at the front desk, take care of any necessary payments, and establish a space in the studio before the instructor begins the Invocation to Patanjali. If you miss the start of the invocation, remain in the lobby until the class has finished chanting and has proceeded to the asana portion of the class. Please note that instructors may deny your participation if you arrive more than ten minutes late.
Out of respect for others, arrive clean and free of scents or perfumes. Upon entering the studio lobby, remove your shoes, place them in a cubby, and turn off your cell phone. Food and drink (including water) are not permitted in the asana rooms. If you have questions about proper etiquette, don’t hesitate to ask!
Anything else?
Coats and jackets may be hung in the dressing rooms. We strongly recommend bringing any item of value (wallet, keys, etc.) into the practice room for safekeeping. Items may be placed in or near the prop shelves.
