About my classes
I am a qualified Iyengar yoga teacher that has been teaching yoga in and around Southampton - face to face and online - since 2013 to young and old, male and female, experienced and inexperienced, active and not so active.
These classes aim to invigorate, rejuvenate and bring calmness of mind. We derive great benefit from our yoga practice both physically and mentally and the classes are welcoming, friendly and enjoyable.
All classes have a period of relaxation at the end.
Why Iyengar Yoga?
Yoga became popular in the West largely due to the teaching of B.K.S. Iyengar. His method of learning yoga is now the most widely practised in the world.
Iyengar yoga is accessible to anyone. Regular practice increases suppleness, strength and stamina, improves posture and concentration and quietens the mind to promote wellbeing. All Iyengar yoga teachers undergo a rigorous programme of training, the Iyengar yoga technique emphasises precision and alignment. Quality of movement is prioritised over quantity. You learn to move with ease in your body while working within your limitations. This makes the yoga postures (asanas) safe to perform.
All Iyengar classes follow specific guidelines and consist of a variety of asanas (postures) giving different effects: the standing poses are stimulating and give vitality; while the forward bends are calming and have a cooling effect. The back bends are anti-depressive and elevate the mood; the inverted poses increase energy and give one a sense of wellbeing.
After only a few weeks of yoga practice you will begin to feel the physical and mental effects and your life will improve as you come to understand how you can now meet the challenges life presents with equanimity.
The yoga asanas affect and penetrate every single cell and tissue, making them come to life. The wide variety of postures offers a training capable of creating a vigorous body, well-functioning inner organs and an alert mind.
Many common physical ailments can be improved by the practice of Yoga postures. They work on specific areas of the body and the movements and extensions in the postures have a profound effect on how the body functions.
The body is oxygenated and filled with healthy blood, decongested and rested. Stamina, lung capacity, heart performance, muscle tone, circulation and respiration all improve.
“If you look after the root of the tree, the fragrance and flowering will come by itself. If you look after the body, the fragrance of the mind and spirit will come of itself.”B K S Iyengar
Who can come?
Men and women from any ethnic origin, religious background, young and old, fit and unfit can practice yoga.
Many ailments can be improved by Iyengar yoga but if you have a specific medical problem you may need specialised attention - let Linda know so that she can suggest an Iyengar therapeutic teacher.
Pregnancy
A general class such as this one is not suitable for anyone who is pregnant who has not practiced Iyengar yoga previously.
Use of props
Yoga Postures are held for longer than in some other methods, allowing tight muscles to lengthen and relax, and helping to focus awareness. Yoga Props such as blankets, blocks and belts may be used to improve your understanding of poses or to help if you have difficulties.
Linda Hooper Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher
