Iyengar Yoga at CAMYOGA

We are very lucky to have Shaili Shafai and Karen Stamper teach Iyengar Yoga for us, here at CAMYOGA offering 3 classes per week!

As there has been an influx of new Yogis to the studio over the last few months, Shaili has kindly put together a guide for those unsure if they are ready for the Saturday Intermediate Class.

What to expect in an Iyengar class

• Taught in 4-week blocks. Expect a different focus each week while working with the same theme. Week 1= Standing Poses, Week 2= Forward Bending, Week 3= Backward Bending, Week 4= Restorative/Pranayama.

• You will be focusing your attention on the details in the posture as guided by your teacher. Postures will be held for a time for you to feel the sensations.

• In the Iyengar style, the teacher will demonstrate postures, and then you’ll be asked to repeat them - the teacher will not be practicing the whole class with you.

• You will be corrected/assisted in your postures, verbally and/or hands-on (the teacher will ask if you’re happy to be assisted physically)

• If you have health issues or are menstruating you will be given an alternative posture.

• You will use props in the class. We have plenty of props for you to use at the studio. If you’re practicing at home we’d recommend purchasing your own props.

• If you’re new to the style (or teacher), the teacher will take the time to give adequate attention to getting to know you and your body.

• The names of poses will be in Sanskrit alongside the demonstration (in the intermediate class, you will be expected to know what the poses are without demonstration).

• Inversions: Sirsasana (headstand) and/or Sarvangasana (shoulder stand) will be practiced every session. In an open class, you don’t need to be able to do the “full” pose but will be expected to work towards it while being guided by your teacher.

If you’re not an experienced Iyengar practitioner, and want to try the style our recommendations are:

• Join our Tuesday (10am), or Wednesday (18:30) Iyengar open classes. You can join either in-studio (preferred for new practitioners) or online (live or recording).

• Start from the first week of the block where we work on standing poses (drop us an email to find out which week we’re on).

• Only, move to the Saturday class, once you’ve had significant experience specifically with IYENGAR yoga and/or at your teacher's recommendation.

• This is so that more experienced students are able to work to their level, and less experienced students will not be overwhelmed.

We hope to see you in class very soon!

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