Frequently Asked Questions
I’m new to Iyengar yoga.
Where do I start?
If you are completely new to yoga the best place to start is by enrolling on an Introduction to Iyengar Yoga Course. If you have some experience of other styles of yoga and want to see if Iyengar yoga is for you then we would also recommend the Introductory Course. If you are unsure where to start please give us a call to discuss the most appropriate class for you.
What are the benefits of yoga?
Yoga is known to have beneficial effects on both physical and mental health. It will help you to increase flexibility, build strength and stamina and improve muscle tone, balance and posture. Regular practice develops awareness, concentration and calms the mind. There are numerous documented health benefits of yoga and Iyengar Yoga is recommended by NHS Choices
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/guide-to-yoga/
I’m not very flexible. Will it be suitable for me?
Yoga is for people of all ages and levels of fitness. You don’t need to be fit or flexible to take part. We teach the use of yoga props as devised by BKS Iyengar which helps even the very stiff to benefit from yoga. Practised regularly it will improve your flexibility as well as strength and stamina. Yoga can also help to bring firmness and stability to very flexible bodies.
How often should I come to yoga classes?
As often as you’d like. At least once a week is recommended. You need to attend regularly to make progress and the more often you come the quicker your progress will be!
Do I need my own mat?
No. All yoga equipment is provided, though some students prefer to bring their own.
What should I wear?
Wear clothes that allow you to move freely. Shorts or legging s and a T-shirt are ideal. Avoid anything baggy or too long. Yoga is always practised in bare feet.
Do I need to book in advance?
You need to book in advance for our Introduction to Iyengar Yoga Courses, Free Taster Classes yoga workshops and other special events. There’s no need to book for regular yoga classes, however, to avoid overcrowding we do limit numbers. It’s best to come at least 10 minutes before they begin so that the class can start on time. If you are unavoidably late for class please wait until preparatory chanting/sitting is complete before entering the studio.
Can I eat before yoga classes?
Yoga should be practised on an empty stomach, so leave at least four hours after a main meal, or one hour after a light snack. It is not advised to drink during class so water bottles are not allowed in the yoga studio. Free drinking water is always available at the Centre for those who need it.
What else do I need to know?
- Please leave shoes in the kitchen or hallway, and switch off mobile phones
- There is a toilet in the hallway
- Please arrive and be ready to start 5 minutes before the scheduled start time
- Food, chewing gum and drinks aren’t allowed in the studio
- Leave all your valuables in the kitchen.
- Please keep jewellery to a minimum, and avoid wearing strong perfumes
- Please take care of the equipment and return it neatly at the end of the class.
I’m pregnant. Can I still practise yoga?
Yes you can and yoga can be very beneficial for you and your baby in both the antenatal and postnatal period. If you have not done any yoga before you should wait until your 14th week of pregnancy and attend the pregnancy yoga class. You may join at any time up to the 28thweek. Only students with Iyengar yoga experience may join after the 28th week.
If you have been practicing Iyengar Yoga before becoming pregnant please speak to you teacher about which class will be best suited for you.
I have an injury, a bad back, or other health problems. Can yoga help?
Many students start practising with back pain, or other common ailments and they find yoga helps. Tell your yoga teacher about any injuries or health problems before the class starts. For more serious conditions, a specialised yoga therapy class may be more appropriate and details of where these can be accessed can be provided. Please feel free to contact us to discuss any health problems and find out which class will be best for you to attend.
