- What is Iyengar Yoga?
- How does Iyengar Yoga differ from other forms of Yoga?
- What should I wear to class?
- Should I eat before coming to class?
- How long are the classes?
- How much do classes cost?
- How much do private lessons cost?
- What are props and why do we use them?
- What if I've never practiced yoga?
What is Iyengar Yoga?
Iyengar yoga is based on the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar, an internationally known yoga master living in Pune, India. Now in his eighties, Mr. Iyengar began studying yoga in his youth and devoted his life to the practice. Not only has he helped to bring a knowledge of yoga to the West, he has worked to bring a greater understanding of the anatomical principles of the postures. In Iyengar yoga we focus on correct alignment of the body so that the poses work to their greatest potential. Mr. Iyengar is the author of various texts on yoga, including the classic, Light On Yoga and his most recent book Light on Life. In 2004, Time Magazine identified Mr. Iyengar as one of the world's most influential people.
In 2005, Diane was fortunate to meet Mr. Iyengar and study with him briefly during the Yoga Journal Convention in Estes Park, Colorado.
In 2007, Diane was again fortunate to study with Mr. Iyengar's daughter, Geeta Iyengar, at the IYNAUS convention in Las Vegas.
TopHow does Iyengar Yoga differ from other forms of Yoga?
Iyengar yoga focuses on correct musculoskeletal alignment often with the use of props, such as blocks, straps, and blankets, to create the alignment and help the student receive the greatest benefit from the pose. For this reason, Iyengar yoga can be used therapeutically and can be practiced by people with injuries or chronic physical problems such as scoliosis.
TopWhat should I wear to class?
Wear comfortable clothes that are loose or stretchy. Yoga is practiced barefoot.
TopShould I eat before coming to class?
It is best to practice yoga on an empty stomach. If you feel you need to eat something before class, have a small snack at least an hour before class. We recommend that you do not practice yoga for at least two hours after a full meal.
TopHow long are the classes?
Some classes are 90 minutes and some are 75 minutes. This allows enough time to work the body fully and provide restorative poses and relaxation. Private lessons are one hour.
TopHow much do classes cost?
Classes are $9-10 each with a coupon book. You can purchase a book of five coupons for $50 or ten coupons for $90. You may also pay on a drop-in basis for $12 per class.
TopHow much do private lessons cost?
Private yoga lessons can be scheduled to fit your personal needs, and are $35 for one hour.
TopWhat are props and why do we use them?
In yoga, a prop is any object that helps stretch, strengthen, relax or improve the alignment of the body. Many common props are found in a house such as walls, windowsills, chairs and countertops. Props used in our studio include blankets, blocks, belts, ropes, sandbags, bolsters and chairs. Props are beneficial to students by helping them maintain correct alignment and movement of the body in poses. The additional support allows one to remain in the poses longer thereby increasing the physiological benefits of the pose while allowing the mind and body to relax. Sometimes props are used to help people with physical limitations perform the pose, thus making the pose accessible to all students. As Mr. Iyengar has said. "Ultimately, yoga with props creates a feeling of peace and tranquility culminating in a fresh perspective and renewed strength."
TopWhat if I've never practiced yoga?
Not to worry. All of our classes are designed to incorporate students with various levels of experience, from the new beginner to the dedicated practitioner.
TopTo find out more or to sign up for a free introductory yoga class at our Denver area yoga studio, e-mail us or call us at 303.669.8106 today.
