How do I book a trial class? Book in a trial class.
When are the classes? Class Times
Where are the classes? Class Times and Map
How much do the classes cost? Prices
Can I borrow (or buy) a mat and other equipment? Yes & yes, see Buy Equipment
How can I learn the invocation? There are free paper copies of the invocation, and it’s translation, in the student folder at class. You can download an MP3 of Guruji chanting it here.
Can I download your booklist? Yes you can view the Book List (for Students) pdf here or pick up a paper copy from the student folder.
What is IYENGAR® yoga? As it says on the IYENGAR® yoga UK website “Yoga is one of the oldest systems of personal development in the world. This system of balancing the body, mind and spirit was formulated by ancient yogis, who understood man’s essential nature and realised a way to utilise all of man’s inner resources to live in harmony with himself and the environment. Pupils learn through a carefully graded and systematic programme of asana (posture). Pranayama (breath control) is gradually introduced once students have a firm foundation of yoga practise. Yoga practice both relaxes and energizes the body and mind and brings vitality, flexibility, strength, concentration, self-confidence and mental calm. Yoga is suitable for all types of people and all levels of fitness. Practicing Yoga helps you overcome and prevent many stresses, strains, aches and pains. It promotes a firm foundation for health and well-being.” For more details on the IYENGAR® yoga method click here.
I have an illness or injury, what should I do? All students are asked to fill in a health form before their first class. There are some illnesses and injuries that require teachers with higher level qualifications. I am qualified to, and have worked with many students with a great range of complaints. I am not, for example, currently able to work with students with epilepsy or cancer. I have however worked with students with hip replacements, general back pain, migraines, very stiff shoulders and during pregnancy. I will give alternatives in some poses where they are helpful for particular students, and will often let you know if a pose is particularly good.
I have my period, will this effect my yoga practice? All my classes have planned variations so a 90 minute session of yoga can be done during menstruation. There are some poses that are definitely to be avoided whilst menstruating (such as inversions and closed abdominal twists) and others where I will give variations that will be more suitable for learning the aims of the lesson at this time. Periodically I teach a full menstrual class suitable for home practice during your period (this is also useful recuperative work for men to know). Having three sisters and two mums, I am totally comfortable dealing with this, though I know that some people find it embarrassing. You need to tell the teacher if you have your period. If you want to be more discreet, you can let me know by text message.
What should I wear? Comfortable and flexible clothing is ideal. You don’t need to worry about footwear as the asanas (poses) are practiced with bare feet. Please be aware that loose fitting or low cut tops are not suitable for yoga, whatever your gender, as these can be far more revealing then you would wish during forward bends. Tops that tuck in are essential for doing inversions. Most experienced students prefer to wear short shorts as these show the knee and thigh muscles and allow the teacher to give detailed instructions for this crucial area of the body. Students who wish to cover up more for any reasons are welcome to do so.
Why is your pricing structure so complicated? As yoga sutra I.14 explains; long, uninterrupted, alert practice, is the firm foundation for attaining inner peace. For this reason I have a pricing structure that encourages long term regular practice. I also want to ensure that the cost of classes do not prevent those less able to pay from getting the benefits of regular yoga practice.
What charities do we currently donate to? In the last three years we have donated about £10,000 between over twenty different charities. Take a look in the charities folder at class for a full breakdown.
Do you teach children and do you know of any workshops for children? I am qualified and insured to teach yoga to children of all ages, however I don’t currently run any child specific classes, and under 18s are always taught separately from over 18s in IYENGAR® yoga. I can recommend an excellent local IYENGAR® yoga teacher who runs monthly workshops for school aged children (primary from age seven, and secondary) around Oxford. She is an intermediate qualified teacher called Evelyn Crosskey. For more information on her workshops and her other superb local classes click here.
Can I come and observe, or teach a pose, in one of your classes?
Iyengar yoga teacher trainers are welcome to come and observe my classes. The first lesson observation is free, and after that, if you choose to observe regularly, you pay for every other observation (2nd, 4th, 6th etc). Observations must be booked in advance. To teach a pose, you need to be a regular student of mine and have passed Introductory Level 1. You take part in the class as normal, coming to the front to teach your pose at the appropriate time.