frequently asked questions

Iyengar Yoga is a systematic method of yoga developed by B.K.S. Iyengar and rooted in the teachings of Patanjali. It gives careful attention to alignment, timing, sequence and the use of props so that each student can practise safely and intelligently. At Yoga Mandir, asana is not treated simply as physical exercise, but as a way to study the body, breath and mind through direct experience.

Yes. Iyengar Yoga is well suited to people of different ages, body types and levels of experience. Stiffness is not an obstacle to practice; it is often the starting point from which we learn. Through clear instruction, appropriate sequencing and the use of props, students learn how to work progressively and with understanding. Iyengar methodology is particularly suited to people of all body types.

Yoga is a universal subject, but each tradition has its own method of teaching and practice. Iyengar Yoga is known for its careful, progressive approach and its emphasis on precision, timing, sequence and awareness. Even within the Iyengar tradition, schools may place different emphasis on different aspects of practice. At Yoga Mandir, the focus is on learning through practice, observation and the gradual refinement of action

Yoga can be studied through books, philosophy and discussion, but practice gives that study its meaning. Through practice we observe the body, breath, senses and mind, and begin to recognise our habits, reactions and patterns of perception. Yoga Vidya describes yoga as both practical and theoretical: objective knowledge is studied, then verified through experience. For this reason, study and practice are best developed together.

Pranayama is the yogic study of breath. In the beginning, the breath is observed as an object of attention. Over time, it reveals the condition of the mind and nervous system. In Iyengar Yoga, pranayama is introduced progressively and is closely linked to asana practice. Yoga Vidya describes its pranayama subjects as moving from the basics into a systematic exploration of principles and practice through a Learn / Study / Practise framework.

During menstruation, the practice should be adapted to support the body rather than disturb it. Inversions, arm balances, strong abdominal work, deep closed twists, strenuous jumping and highly exertive practices are generally avoided. Instead, the practice may include supported poses, quieter standing poses, supported forward extensions and restorative work. Students experiencing pain, heavy bleeding, fatigue or menopausal symptoms should speak with their teacher so the practice can be modified appropriately.

Yoga Mandir recommends the Yoga Sadhana Booklet which is our Student guide to the school syllabus It can be purchased as a hardcopy in the school or as a downloadable Pdf at: https://study.yogamandir.com.au/product/yoga-sadhana-booklet/

Beginners who want to understand the broader subject of yoga may begin with Light on Life and Tree of Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar. For home practice and practical guidance, useful books include Yoga: The Iyengar Way by Silva, Mira and Shyam Mehta, How to Use Yoga by Mira Mehta, and Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health by B.K.S. Iyengar. These books support practice, but they do not replace the guidance of a teacher.

Practice provides the context in which a practitioner learns to watch the conduct of their thoughts. It is through practice that we evidence the vrttis (illusions, doubts, misperceptions) and recognise the klesas (the causes for these disturances in perception). Without first the capacity to study the mind, it is not possible to change the way it behaves.

Yoga is a universal subject though methodology differs dramatically according to the lineage of teachers. Each lineage of Yoga has is own specific approach to teaching and to practice and even within lineage, for example our lineage of Iyengar Yoga, schools and institutes will have different emphasis within their teaching.

Yes. The Iyengar methodology of Yoga study is particularly well suited to people of all body types.