In conversation with Pixie Lillas 06-02-2026

Pixie Lillas began her study of Iyengar Yoga in Florence, Italy, in 1976, under the guidance of Dona Holleman. In those early years, yoga in Europe was still taking root, and teachers like Holleman—herself one of B.K.S. Iyengar’s early European students—served as important links between India and the emerging Western practice communities. It was during this time, in her early twenties, that Pixie made her first journey to Pune, India, to study directly with B.K.S. Iyengar. This initial visit in 1977 marked the beginning of a lifelong connection with the Iyengar family and their method. She has returned regularly to RIMYI in Pune ever since, continuing her study with B.K.S. Iyengar, and later, with Geeta and Prashant Iyengar, drawing on the depth of their knowledge in philosophy, therapeutics, and the inner dimensions of practice.

Pixie moved to Sydney, Australia, in 1980, and within that same year co founded the Balmain Iyengar Yoga Studio (BIYS). At that time, Iyengar Yoga in Australia was in its infancy, with only a small number of formally trained teachers and few structured schools. The establishment of BIYS represented one of the first dedicated Iyengar centres in the country. 

Pixie’s influence extended well beyond Balmain. When Iyengar Yoga Australia (IYA) was formed in 1985, she was a foundational figure, playing an instrumental role in shaping the assessment and certification processes that would guide teacher development across the country. Her involvement with assessment continues, and has included senior roles on assessment panels and policy committees, where her voice—measured, clear, and authoritative—helped articulate the standards expected of certified teachers.

Her teaching style is marked by enduring enquiry, with depth and clarity. Those who study with her often speak of her ability to build understanding patiently, without spectacle, allowing students to grow into the practice over time. She emphasises structure and grounding accessible to beginners, while long-term practitioners appreciate the subtlety and refinement that emerges as they progress. Long years of immersion in the method have evolved a teaching style grounded in direct experience.

Pixie holds a Junior Advanced Level II certificate, one of the higher levels of certification in the Iyengar system. She has taught widely throughout Australia, New Zealand, and Europe, leading intensives and teacher development programs that have helped shape a generation of teachers.