Welcome to the Iyengar Yoga Institute of San Francisco. Iyengar is a style of yoga created by yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar. The Institute holds a direct lineage to the Iyengar family and to the Iyengar Institute in Pune, India.
Please arrive early to acquaint yourself with the facility and to sign in.
Please sign in and fill out a waiver form. If you register on-line prior to class (preferred) the waiver form will be on-line.
Let your teacher know that it is your first visit and first experience with Iyengar yoga. This will help them better guide your experience.
Iyengar yoga may differ from other yoga classes in a number of ways:
- Most Iyengar classes begin with a chant to honor Patanjali, the sage who compiled the classic yoga texts.
- Time is spent on the development and proper alignment of each asana. Precisely guided verbal instruction and visual demonstration helps reinforce the relationship of all parts of the body to the asana, and the asana to the breath and yoga philosophy. Sometimes, poses are held for longer periods of time, and fewer asanas may covered in one class period than in a vinyasa or other ashtanga classes.
- Certified Iyengar teachers are trained to modify the classic asanas (yoga postures) for individual students. Often, modifications include the use of props such as blocks, blankets and belts. Props can allow for a deeper understanding of the posture and comfort level.
- Iyengar teachers request that you wear clothes that are stretchy, comfortable and form fitting. When the teacher can see your ankles and knees, she/he can see the alignment of your body. Shorts and tights are the best options. Sweat pants or flared yoga pants are not ideal for Iyengar yoga.
- Water bottles are not permitted in the practice area of the studio. Please come to class well hydrated.
