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. At times this class will focus on strengthening and mobilizing sections of the body, such as the upper back, neck and shoulders, feet, ankles and knees, or hips and lower back.

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 - Intermediate/Advanced

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. Those experiencing conditions affecting the spine and/or joints and the muscles that mobilize them (i.e. tears, herniations, impingements, scoliosis, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, stiffness, inflammation, etc.) as well as postural challenges sometimes associated with aging will benefit.  

The unique needs of each participant are addressed through a systematic approach to the practice of the postures and the use of props. The maximum number of students in the classroom at any time is limited to ensure personal attention and assistance as the student practices.

Classes begin and end with a posture that is nurturing and restorative to the body and mind. Prior Yoga experience is not required but a willingness to learn how to pay attention to your body in a positive and encouraging manner is essential:-)

Yoga, as Therapy (Individual Sessions)

All Yoga is therapeutic. Its practice gives back health and happiness (sukha) to the body and mind and brings about contentment (santosha). It is not medical treatment but can provide the student with the knowledge about how to (at least) manage and (at best) heal from the source of the pain (dukha) being experienced by the body-mind. Iyengar Yoga combines individualized sequencing, the skillful use of props, timing while in the specific postures and hands-on assistance by highly-trained teachers to create a holistic treatment, unique to each individual.

For more information about our classes send an email to info@iyengaryogalehighvalley.com.