1. Your teachers are comp
letely dedicated to the practice of Yoga.
It is our profession and our passion. We have dedicated our lives to the study of this deep practice. While may not be our only job, it is one we love. We think about what we can share through our practice and our teaching. We are not interested in the commercial aspects of yoga. It is the practice and teaching approach that get us really excited.
It takes at least 5 years of dedicated study to become a certified Iyengar teacher, and most teachers have at least 1,000+ hours of training. These days, many yoga teacher training programs end at 250 hours. When you walk in our door you can be sure that you’ll be taught by someone who knows what they’re doing. Iyengar teachers have committed themselves to the relentless pursuit of self-study, which includes constantly improving our practice and teaching through ongoing education.
We endeavor to inspire and entertain. Really though, what we do best is to create a healing, nurturing environment through our knowledge of the practice and passion for yoga, whether you are dealing with a broken arm or broken heart – and everything in between.
2. We personalize our instruction.
We are dedicated to serving you and your individual needs. In class, you can expect to be asked about your injuries or illness. You may also be asked whether you are menstruating or pregnant. Your teacher may call your name out in class. Your teacher may touch you to adjust your alignment. All of this will likely be done in public, not behind closed doors, unless you ask for something different. We want to learn with you and from you. It’s why we ask questions! We welcome and hope for positive feedback to help us continue to improve the teaching environment. If you would like a private conversation with your teacher, please ask. We want to take care of you so that you feel safe and protected.
3. You are not anonymous.
Your teacher will make an effort to remember your name, your body and your practice. They will expect that you are interested in experiencing the benefits of Iyengar yoga. To receive these benefits, you should find a teacher who you like, and commit to coming to their class regularly. After an initial “shopping period” you should settle into 1 – 3 classes a week with that you can attend regularly. Make an effort to study with the same teacher. If you do so consistently, your practice will blossom – your body and mind will open.
4. We start our classes on time.
The yoga practice includes developing discipline to arrive early so you are completely ready for the teaching when class starts. It is important to give yourself and the others taking class a full and focused practice. Once class begins, it is very disruptive to set up your spot while others are ready to go. Remember: it takes several minutes to get into class, register, connect with your teacher, change your clothes, and get settled in. Often the person checking you in is attending class as well. It is important to be mindful of the full experience when signing up for a class: pick a time that works with your schedule so you can get the full experience.
5. Iyengar yoga is to be experienced, not consumed.
We believe that yoga is about expanding your consciousness, not your belongings. We aren’t that hip. We wear clothes which are comfortable and help us to do our practice, but we aren’t that interested in expensive, brand name outfits. Its easy to collect the teachings as we would new hoodies – we endeavor to avoid collecting either. Instead, we do our best to experience the practice, and reflect upon what we learn. We do drink green juice and coconut water, because it is delicious and healthy – not because it is hip or cool. We own a yoga mat…for home practice! And perhaps most importantly, we provide access to yoga for everyone and everybody.