Yoga Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be flexible to do Yoga?

No! Everyone comes to class with different levels of strength and flexibility. The classes are taught in an individualized manner so that you can approach the poses based on your body's needs.

Are you ever too old to begin doing Yoga?

Absolutely not! You can begin Yoga at any time, and feel the benefits. Everyone starts with the body they walk in the room with. The classes are non-competitive and we encourage you to do what is the best for your physical ability.

How often do you need to do Yoga?

Coming to Yoga classes once a week is a good start. The more you do Yoga the more you will feel the benefits, so hopefully you can begin to do some Yoga at home as you learn the asanas (postures).

What if you can't do some poses because of physical limitations?

Injuries or physical limitations should not stop you from having a Yoga practice (you should consult your doctor, of course). Yoga is a vast topic with thousands of poses that have benefits for all of us. Be sure to let your instructor know of any physical limitations so that you can determine what poses would be best for you.

What are Yoga props and why use them?

Props are simple objects—wooden blocks, blankets, chairs, belts—that help you refine your asanas (postures). Mr. Iyengar has been accredited with development of the use of props. They are not always used, but are helpful for many different reasons. Sometimes they assist those who cannot do a pose without some support. At other times, however, the prop will help you notice areas of the body that tend to under- or overwork. Your awareness and Yoga practice is deepened as a result. For some examples of ways to use the props, visit our photo gallery.

What is an Iyengar certified teacher?

To become a certified teacher, an instructor must first have taught Iyengar-style Yoga for at least two years. Most will have apprenticed with a more senior teacher or completed comprehensive 2-3 year teacher-training program. The instructor will be readying themselves by studying an assigned syllabus of poses, anatomy, yoga philosophy and teaching skills.

An instructor must then be recommended for “assessment” by two senior certified teachers, who have seen the instructor teach and do Yoga. The assessment covers a broad spectrum of topics—yoga philosophy, anatomy, the benefits of the poses, proper sequencing, instruction, etc. The assessment process is a weekend-long event where the instructor takes a written exam, performs the poses from the syllabus and teaches in front of a panel.

An Iyengar certificated teacher must go through this process twice in a three year period—with two different sets of poses and exams—to become fully certified. But they do not have to stop there! Teacher certification is a lifelong process. There are over a dozen levels of certification in the Iyengar tradition. Teachers, like their students, are lifelong learners of the intricacies of Yoga.

Is there anything else I should know about before coming to class?

• Yoga is Joyful! Be light and have fun.
• Everyone comes to class with different levels of strength and flexibility. The classes are taught in an individualized manner. Resist the urge to be competitive.
• Class is taught as a sequence of poses, gradually building in intensity. The beginning and end are important components of the class. Please be on time. If you must leave early, allow yourself a few minutes of relaxation before you go.
• Sometimes the stretches are intense. To avoid injury, do not force your body beyond its capacity. Come out of a posture if it does not feel safe to you or if you experience any pain in a joint. Talk to the instructor.
• Questions during class are encouraged and welcomed.
• Avoid wearing perfume or cologne and strongly scented cosmetics, lotions, and hair products.
• Special Needs: Please inform your instructor of any injuries or chronic illness (this includes injuries past or present and/or medical problems such as high blood pressure or heart conditions). Some exercises could be harmful under these conditions, but can be modified.
• Menstrual Period: During menstruation, avoid inversions and strenuous postures. We would be happy to show you appropriate alternate postures you can do during menstruation.