INTRODUCTION TO THE
IYENGAR YOGA METHOD.

The Iyengar method of Yoga is a precise and systematic approach. B.K.S.Iyengar has evolved precise asana and pranayama techniques, integrated into a spiritual approach. His teaching is methodical and progressive, emphasising detailed correctness and absolute safety. Beginners start with simple asana's (postures) in a basic way according to their individual abilities. Progress is made by adding more detail and refinement to these basic asana's as well as the inclusion of more advanced asanas's and breathing techniques (pranayama). Students of all levels of physical fitness including those with experience in other physical disciplines need to start at the beginning to build a foundation of correct practice and understanding.

YOUR INSTRUCTOR - CLAIRE WILKINSON

"It was after a serious illness I thought I would give yoga a try to get myself back on my feet after reading about the benefits and how through regular practice one could promote a healthier and general well-being, both mentally and physically, since yoga works on many aspects of the body from the physical exterior down to the internal organs and glands. I naively stumbled into this class one Friday evening and instantly fell in love with this 'YOGA'. I had many questions, one being 'what sort of Yoga is this?' 'Iyengar' I was told by my teacher 'and it's very good for you, just look atme... do I look my age of 65 yrs?' I had to admit she didn'tt. In fact she looked FANTASTIC.

From there on I continued my practice and I went on to do my teacher training with the Iyengar Association back in 1992. I have since taught both locally and in London and have attended many workshops, teacher training days / weekends and visits out to India to see the master himself, BKS Iyengar.

What I love about the Iyengar system is the precision and care that is taken when working in the postures. With the constant use of props which enables the student to engage the posture and to encourage a sense of achievement, in some cases giving the student a glimmer of how certain postures feel which on there own would have been impossible.

Some yoga practitioners quiver in their bare feet when they hear the word 'Iyengar'. Which I can fully appreciate since the practice can at times be hard and strict on occasions. With my own classes I try and work gently and offer encouragement to all my students especially if they are finding a posture difficult. I do emphasize the fact that your yoga practice is all about what you can gain for yourself both mentally and physically and not on how good you look in the posture. I believe this is the key to successful yoga practice.

Damasti.

Classes:

Our new Iyengar Yoga classes will commence on Wednesday 3rd September 2008 at 7.30 - 9.00pm

Please contact us if you are interested in signing up.