Class Information
What does the Iyengar method offer?
The IYENGAR YOGA CENTRE SOCIETY offers classes based on the teaching of B.K.S. Iyengar, one of the foremost exponents of yoga in the world today and author of the classic text, Light on Yoga. Yoga is for all of us! No one is too old, too young, too stiff, too large, too small, or too tired. Iyengar Yoga can be viewed as the great equalizer among the many yoga styles offered today. Choose from over 50 classes per week taught by our teachers, many of whom have studied with the Iyengars. All have been certified by the Canadian Iyengar Yoga Teachers Association.
What will Iyengar Yoga do for you?
Our approach promotes mobility, stability, strength and alignment. "The effects of yoga practice are beauty, strength, clarity of speech, calmness of the nerves, increase in digestive powers and a happy disposition that is revealed in a smiling face," says BKS Iyengar. The 91 year old master lives in Pune, India, and still practices many hours a day. Victoria teachers travel regularly to India to study from Iyengar and his children.
Who is BKS Iyengar?
In 2004, Time magazine described him as a living yoga master and named him one of the 100 most influential people in the world. The article noted that the popularity of yoga in the West can be attributed in large part to Iyengar, who first introduced his style to North America over 50 years ago.
How are Iyengar teachers trained?
Iyengar yoga teacher training is rigorous. In Canada, a minimum of 3 years training is required for an introductory teacher. You are in good hands with Iyengar teachers who teach a safe and systematic progression of poses. Iyengar teachers have a well-developed eye. The Iyengar Centre of Victoria, offers one of the most comprehensive teacher training programs in North America.
What does Iyengar Yoga have to offer?
The Iyengar Yoga Centre of Victoria celebrates its 31st year in Victoria in 2010. "The aim of yoga is to restore the mind to simplicity and peace and free it from confusion and distress. The practice of yoga fills the reservoirs of hope and optimism within us," says Shirley Daventry French, founding member and teacher at the Centre. At 78, French is respected world-wide and continues to teach regular classes and train Iyengar teachers.
Can I become a member of the Iyengar Yoga Centre?
Members pay $40 per year for membership. Members receive a discount on class fees; borrowing privileges in the library; scholarship and bursary eligibility; free noon class every week; free practice time on Sundays; discounts on workshops, retreats and intensives; and eligibility to become a board member.
General Information
THE RIGHT CLASS FOR YOU:
Please read the class descriptions to decide which class best suits you. For chronic conditions, consider the Gentle Care class; for more acute problems please consider the Special Needs Class. Healthy pregnant women that are new to yoga should register in the Pre Natal class or in Level 1 classes. Please inform the teacher if you pregnant.
PAYMENT METHOD:
Cash, cheque? Debit, Visa and Mastercard. Mail a cheque or drop in between 10:00am-1:00pm Monday through Friday; 4:00 pm - 7:15 pm Monday to Thursday; and 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm on Fridays; Saturday 9:30 to 12; Sunday 10:15 to 12:15. The Iyegar Centre has an answering machine and will accept credit card registrations over the phone if the class is not full.
PRICES:
Class prices will vary when workshops, special events, or holidays affect the number of classes within the term. Most classes are 1.5 hours but several are 55 minutes in length.
VISITORS:
If you are a visiting Iyengar Yoga student, the Centre offers individual drop-ins or week-long passes.
MISSED CLASSES:
If you miss a class, come to any class at your level during the same term. If possible, please attend a make up class in Arbutus Studio (check that the class is not full).
REFUND POLICY:
Once the term has begun, there are no refunds for class. With a doctor's certificate, credit will be given for future classes. A $15 service fee applies.
DRESS:
Please wear shorts or tights that show the knees clearly. Bare feet are essential.
Etiquette
NO SCENTS: Please do not wear perfume, cologne, essential oil or any scented products to class.
KEEP YOUR VOICE LOW in the lobby. When a class is finishing, students will be in relaxation.
IF YOU ARE SICK, please focus on your healing at home. You are welcome to make up classes during the term.
CELL PHONES: Please turn your cell off before class.
LEAVE NO TRACE: Please use the change rooms to store belongings. Take wallets and purses into the studios.
PUT AWAY PROPS, neatly place tissues in garbage receptacles, and take all belongings home with you.