Classes FAQ

Can I do yoga if I have asthma / a bad back / high blood pressure?

Many conditions can be relieved by regular practice of yoga – see the Links page for the many benefits of yoga. If you have any medical problems please check with your GP before enrolling on a course. All new students are asked to complete a medical declaration form. See registration form on the Yoga Resources page.

Can I do yoga while pregnant?

If you have been coming to classes with me for a while and there are no complications, you can still attend your regular class throughout your pregnancy. Just make sure I am aware so I can adapt the poses for you and please contact me to discuss further.

What can I expect in an Iyengar Yoga class?

You will be introduced to the basic asanas (postures), which will include standing, sitting and recuperative poses. All the asanas have Sanskrit names, I will demonstrate, so you will follow easily. I will help you use yoga props such as belts and blocks to help you achieve the postures to the best of your ability.

All the asanas have different effects on the body and mind. The basic postures build strength and stamina, improve muscular tone, flexibility and alignment. Practising them will reduce tiredness and soothe the nerves. It also trains and disciplines the mind, so concentration is improved.

If you are menstruating there are certain postures that are not suitable, so please consult the me before the class starts.

What should I wear?

Wear unrestrictive clothing with ankles and knees visible for safety. Shorts and T-shirt are ideal. Leggings are OK as long as they are not baggy or trailing on the floor. Yoga is always practised in bare feet. Socks and warmer clothing can be worn for Savasana (relaxation) at the end of class.

“Yoga is a light, which once lit, will never dim. The better your practice, the brighter the flame.”

- B.K.S. Iyengar

Do I need equipment?

Iyengar Yoga sometimes use blocks and belts to help a student achieve their full potential in a pose. You can borrow all the equipment you need at first and if you then decide Iyengar Yoga is for you, you can buy your own kit.

Can I eat before a class?

Leave four hours after a heavy meal and one hour after a light snack. Do not drink during a yoga class. You can drink as much as you like after class has finished.

My body is really stiff / will everyone be fitter than me?

Iyengar Yoga is for everyone, irrespective of age, gender, health or flexibility. Regular practice builds suppleness, flexibility and strength. Iyengar teachers concentrate on precision and alignment and your postures are adjusted if necessary, so a safe, correct practice is achieved.

Will I have to meditate?

Each asana (yoga pose) requires concentration, this focus means the mind is in the ‘present moment’ and in time the asanas become a meditation in themselves. There is a relaxation at the end of class when you can totally relax the mind and body.

Will the classes be all women?

No: many men attend regular classes. More men are beginning to realise the benefits of yoga, especially if they do a lot of other sports. The postures are a challenge to both sexes.

Always inform your teacher of any medical conditions.

If you are menstruating please tell me as the start of class as certain asanas are not suitable and alternatives will be given.

Etiquette for class:

• Please switch off / silence your mobile phone.
• Please do not bring any food or drink into class.
• Please do not wear any strong-smelling perfume / aftershave in class.
• Please treat and cover any infectious foot conditions such as verrucas/athlete’s foot.
• Please keep jewellery to a minimum.
• Please don’t come into the studio during the invocation at the start of class if you arrive late.

Thank you.