As soon as the word yoga is mentioned everyone has a view of what it entails. Some may see it as a form of physical exercise, others a spiritual journey, others a therapeutic means to improve their health, a weekly gathering of friends, a workout, a meditation....
Some may be confused by the huge array of ‘styles’ that they come across on internet and in the media, Astanga, Bikram (Hot), Hatha to name but a few.
Yoga encompasses all of these things. Most people who initially come to yoga are attracted by the idea of improved physical health, flexibility or stress management and it has been shown that with practice these benefits occur.
Studies show yoga can improve mood, lower high blood pressure, boost confidence, improve posture, help with fatigue, asthma and obesity and lower risk of heart disease even if the effects are placebo and it is the very act of doing yoga that assists with the conditions. However once practice begins subtle changes start to occur. There is discovery of deeper physical and physiological awareness leading to psychological and spiritual benefits as you progress through these layers of yourself. There is the emergence of someone who is lighter, calmer and altogether better.
Some may be confused by the huge array of ‘styles’ that they come across on internet and in the media, Astanga, Bikram (Hot), Hatha to name but a few.
Yoga encompasses all of these things. Most people who initially come to yoga are attracted by the idea of improved physical health, flexibility or stress management and it has been shown that with practice these benefits occur.
Studies show yoga can improve mood, lower high blood pressure, boost confidence, improve posture, help with fatigue, asthma and obesity and lower risk of heart disease even if the effects are placebo and it is the very act of doing yoga that assists with the conditions. However once practice begins subtle changes start to occur. There is discovery of deeper physical and physiological awareness leading to psychological and spiritual benefits as you progress through these layers of yourself. There is the emergence of someone who is lighter, calmer and altogether better.
Frequently Asked Questions about Yoga
What should I wear to class?
Wear unrestrictive clothing that allows easy movement, shorts or leggings and t shirt are ideal and be ready to work in bare feet.
I’m not flexible, can I still do yoga?
Although yoga involves stretching muscles and thereby improving suppleness and flexibility, through the regular practice of poses (asanas) it brings also strength, stamina and so much more. Iyengar yoga emphasizes alignment in the body and it is much more important how you are stretching than whether you are reaching your toes!
Do I need to bring equipment?
Basic equipment is provided but you are encouraged to bring your own once established.
How long after eating should I wait before doing yoga?
Yoga should be practiced on an empty stomach – A rough guide is two hours after snacks or four hours after a large meal but all bodies are different and as you become more aware you will sense when you have eaten too much or too soon before a practice or class.
Can anyone do yoga?
Yoga is individual and non competitive. A distinctive feature of Iyengar Yoga is the use of equipment, called props, to enable a student to develop strength, flexibility and control in a posture in order to achieve their full potential. Yoga is extremely helpful for many ailments and problems however the therapeutic demands in some cases may need more specialist teaching than can be offered in a general class and in these cases you may be referred to teachers trained in yoga therapy.
If you have any issues of concern or a specific medical condition, please contact me beforehand.
What happens in an Iyengar yoga class?
The class involves a sequence of postures (asanas) and usually has emphasis on a particular area of the body or a particular group of poses, e.g. standing, sitting, back extension, front extension, recuperation. The teacher is trained to guide the students and make appropriate adjustments for different physiques and for people with specific problems. Precision in the postures is considered vital and it can be hard work as the poses involve intense stretching. The class always ends with a pose of complete relaxation and you may leave the class feel lighter and calmer. Many of my students comment on their better night’s sleep on yoga night!
What should I wear to class?
Wear unrestrictive clothing that allows easy movement, shorts or leggings and t shirt are ideal and be ready to work in bare feet.
I’m not flexible, can I still do yoga?
Although yoga involves stretching muscles and thereby improving suppleness and flexibility, through the regular practice of poses (asanas) it brings also strength, stamina and so much more. Iyengar yoga emphasizes alignment in the body and it is much more important how you are stretching than whether you are reaching your toes!
Do I need to bring equipment?
Basic equipment is provided but you are encouraged to bring your own once established.
How long after eating should I wait before doing yoga?
Yoga should be practiced on an empty stomach – A rough guide is two hours after snacks or four hours after a large meal but all bodies are different and as you become more aware you will sense when you have eaten too much or too soon before a practice or class.
Can anyone do yoga?
Yoga is individual and non competitive. A distinctive feature of Iyengar Yoga is the use of equipment, called props, to enable a student to develop strength, flexibility and control in a posture in order to achieve their full potential. Yoga is extremely helpful for many ailments and problems however the therapeutic demands in some cases may need more specialist teaching than can be offered in a general class and in these cases you may be referred to teachers trained in yoga therapy.
If you have any issues of concern or a specific medical condition, please contact me beforehand.
What happens in an Iyengar yoga class?
The class involves a sequence of postures (asanas) and usually has emphasis on a particular area of the body or a particular group of poses, e.g. standing, sitting, back extension, front extension, recuperation. The teacher is trained to guide the students and make appropriate adjustments for different physiques and for people with specific problems. Precision in the postures is considered vital and it can be hard work as the poses involve intense stretching. The class always ends with a pose of complete relaxation and you may leave the class feel lighter and calmer. Many of my students comment on their better night’s sleep on yoga night!