F A Q’s

Is the yoga equipment provided by the school, including mats?
Yes. Equipment is provided. However you are welcome to bring your own mat, belt etc.

Can I come for a “casual” class without booking?
All our classes are “ongoing”. You are not regulated to a specific time or level, although it is best if you haven’t been to yoga before to come to a beginner class.

How do I best select the level of class most appropriate to me? Refer to our Class Levels page for information on each level.  If you still unsure about which level to attend, it is recommended you attend the leass experienced level and gaugue from there.  Discuss your options with the teacher after class or call and – 9387 8108 and talk with a teacher.

Can I come to a yoga class if I have health concerns or limitations?
Yes, you can. However, please ring, if necessary, and speak with a teacher before coming to class regarding any health concerns. If the health concern is ongoing and/or serious we may be able to offer you a place in the remedial class or organise a private class. Otherwise advise your teacher of your concerns before class. Iyengar teachers are trained to modify poses and suggest alternative strategies or poses to enable you to practise safely and intelligently. 

Do not be put off from trying a yoga class for whatever reason. Yoga has something to offer everyone. 

What are the teachers’ qualifications?
The teachers of the school are qualified to a recognised international standard set down by Yogacharya BKS Iyengar. They have completed rigorous training, which can take over five years, before being assessed by senior teachers of the Iyengar Yoga Australia. There are 13 levels of certification in the Iyengar tradition.  Teachers must complete ongoing learning yearly to maintain their certification and qualify to use the Certification Mark of Iyengar Yoga.  This Certification Mark is recognised and registered worldwide.

What should I bring to class?
All equipment necessary to practise is provided. You may bring your own mat if you prefer.Wear shorts or tights and clothes that allow you to move easily.  Yoga is always practised in bare feet. 

Please do not bring water to class. Drinking water through class is not encouraged however, advise the teacher if you have a medical condition which may necessitate having water. 

Please turn OFF your mobile phone when in class. Even a phone on silent can disturb. However if you have family/personal concerns speak with the teacher.

How does Iyengar Yoga differ from other styles of yoga?
The Iyengar method develops strength, endurance and optimal body alignment, in addition to flexibility and relaxation. It develops self-awareness, intelligent evaluation and inward reflection. Standing poses are emphasised at the beginning to build strength and ease of movement, increase general vitality, and improve circulation, coordination and balance. Gradually, sitting and reclining poses, forward bends, inversions, backbends, twists, arm balances and flowing sequences are introduced. Alignment and understanding of the asanas (poses) are constantly reinforced allowing the practitioner to progress at their own pace.

Why is alignment important?
Iyengar yoga emphasises precision of alignment in the yoga poses. Why is this important? People tend to stretch from their more flexible areas and rely on their better-developed muscles for strength, thus reinforcing postural habits. Iyengar yoga encourages weak parts to strengthen and stiff areas to release, thus awakening and realigning the whole body. As the body moves into better alignment, less muscular work is required and relaxation increases naturally. – effortless effort.

What are props and why do we use them?
Yogacharya BKS Iyengar introduced props into the modern practice of yoga to allow all practitioners access to the benefits of the poses regardless of physical condition, age, or length of practice. Props include sticky mats, blankets, belts, blocks, benches, wall ropes, sandbags, chairs and other objects that help students gain sensitivity and experience the various yoga poses more profoundly and receive the deep benefits of the pose.  

Props are not used all the time however, they assist practitioners (including the most advanced) gain sensitivity and receive the deep benefits of poses. Props are introduced from the beginning for students with specific physical limitations and are used in regular classes to enhance personal understanding of a pose and its effects and to develop skill and confidence. Props allow students to practise asanas (poses) and pranayama (breathing techniques) with greater effectiveness, ease and stability. They provide support for the body and allow the mind to relax. 

61 2 9387 8108   info@iyengaryogabj.com.au