Class Descriptions

Yoga Basics - Beginners

This class is for you if you are new to Yoga or the Iyengar Yoga method. You will learn to practice the foundational Yoga postures while engaging the body and mind in the process of moving skillfully and breathing consciously. Simple stress-relieving techniques that can be used in daily life will be integrated into each class for you to take your practice of Yoga off the mat and into the world.

Level 1 - Continuing Beginners

This class is for you if you have some Yoga experience in another method, or have already attended the Yoga Basics classes consistently for at least six months. You will learn to practice inversions like Halasana (plough), Sarvangasana (shoulderstand) and Sirsasana (headstand) in a progressive manner. The use of the Yoga rope wall is introduced as are Surya Namaskara (Sun Salutations). Pranayama is introduced to deepen the connection between body and mind.

Level 2 - Intermediate

This class is for you if you are confident in practicing the Level 1 syllabus and are ready to begin to learn Adho Mukha Vrksasana (handstand) and Pincha Mayurasana (forearm balance) and practice Sirsasana and Sarvangasana (or their supported alternatives) for five minutes. The next step in each category of poses (forward and backward extensions, twists, etc.) is assimilated, including Padmasana (lotus pose). The practice of Pranayama evolves from reclining to seated.

Level 3 - Continuing Intermediate

This class is for you if you have a well-established practice that includes inversions and variations. Students should be able to independently practice Adho Mukha Vrksasana, Pincha Mayurasana (with support from the wall), push up from the floor in Urdhva Dhanurasana and perform Dwi Pada Viparita Dandasana. The next steps are taken in Pranayama, including digital Pranayama.

Level 4 - Advanced

This class is for you if you have substantial Iyengar Yoga experience, navigated all the categories of asanas skillfully and are prepared to approach the final frontier in each. The capacity to perform inversions and variations with stable, precise alignment for ten minutes is required to attend this class and students should be able to practice Kapotasana from the floor (in Supta Virasana). Arm balances from Sirsasana II are taught, as are body knottings.

Yoga, as Therapy* (Group Class)

This class was developed for anyone desiring to feel at home in their own body while alleviating the stress and strain of modern life. It offers support through Yoga practice for common health concerns, including musculoskeletal discomfort, spinal conditions, respiratory, cardiovascular and digestive issues, mental health challenges, sleep disturbances, and postural changes associated with aging.

Students experiencing pain or restriction in the spine, joints, and supporting muscles will benefit from a systematic approach grounded in the principles of Iyengar Yoga. Postures are adapted using props to meet individual needs.

Class size is limited to ensure personal attention and appropriate guidance. Sessions begin and end with nurturing, restorative postures to support both body and mind.

No prior yoga experience is required—just an open mind and a willingness to move in new ways.

*Yoga as a supportive and educational practice is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment.

More about Yoga, as Therapy

All Yoga is inherently therapeutic. Its practice restores health and happiness (sukha) to the body and mind and cultivates contentment (santoṣa).

While Yoga is not medical treatment, it can provide students with practical knowledge about how to skillfully relate to—and often reduce—the sources of pain (duḥkha) experienced in the body and mind.

Iyengar Yoga emphasizes individualized sequencing, the intelligent use of props, precise timing within postures, and hands-on guidance by highly trained teachers. Together, these elements create a holistic, student-centered approach that responds to the unique needs of each individual.

If you are interested in joining the Yoga, as Therapy group class or scheduling individual sessions, please send an email to info@iyengaryogalehighvalley.com.