Can I attend classes if I have a medical condition?
Yes. Anyone can practise yoga and the Iyengar method is ideally suited to those meeding adjustments or modifications to their individual needs. Teachers at Yoga Mandir work with students with a range of conditions including hypertension, arthritis, epilepsy, joint and muscle pain, depression, anxiety, endometriosis, scoliosis and back pain. The important point is that the student practises in the right class, with the teacher informed, and with the condition clearly recorded before attendance.
What should I do before attending class if I have an injury or health condition?
Students should make sure their medical information is up to date when they register or enrol. The website explains that each student has a website login where contact details and medical information are recorded, and that this information is made available to the teacher. This allows the teacher to understand what needs to be observed, modified or avoided in class.
When is a Private Consultation required?
A Private Consultation is important when a medical condition seriously affects your wellbeing, or when you are unsure which class pathway is appropriate. A Private Consultation form us submitted prior to the meeting and can be obtained by emailing the office. At the one hour consultation with Alan Goode time is provided to discuss the condition, review history and medical notes, explain the approach to working with the condition, and recommend an enrolment or practice pathway.
What happens in a Private Consultation?
A Private Consultation is a one-hour session with senior teacher Alan Goode. It is suited to students with injuries or medical conditions and may also be useful for students already attending classes who need more specific guidance. During the session, Alan reviews the condition and history, considers any medical notes, explains how yoga practice can be approached, and recommends either a class enrolment, therapy pathway or individual practice guidance. The Returning Students page also notes that students should complete the online Private Consultation Form when booking.
What is Yoga Therapy at Yoga Mandir?
Yoga Therapy at Yoga Mandir is for students with significant injuries and health concerns, as well as those working with imbalance in the body or rehabilitation after injury or surgery. The site describes therapy as a pathway back towards full health and attendance in ongoing classes. It is not presented as a separate or isolated practice, but as a way of modifying asanas, adjusting practice and making both home practice and class attendance possible. Enrollment is for five consecutive sessions to provide guidance for home practice and feedback.
Do I need an assessment before attending Therapy class?
In most instances, yes. The Therapy class page states that attendance is in a five-week block and in most cases requires a Private Consultation is required prior to attending Yoga Therapy class. This ensures the student’s condition is understood and that the work given in class is appropriate. Ongoing students of Yoga Mandir may be directed to attend the Therapy class without a Private Consultation
Which class pathway should I choose
If you are new to Yoga Mandir and do not have a significant condition, Beginner Basics prepares students for Slow Paced, Foundation and Asana classes. If you are returning or have regular experience, Yoga Mandir offers a range of levels, from Asana and Foundations through to Developing, Established, Mature, Slow Paced, Open and Restorative classes. Where there is injury, illness, post-surgery rehabilitation or uncertainty about which class is suitable, the pathway is to book a Private Consultation first. Where the condition requires more specific support, Therapy class may be recommended before returning to general classes.