40th Anniversary Celebrations – Abhijata Iyengar’s First Visit to Iyengar Yoga London
16 July 2024|
Abhijata Iyengar visited Iyengar Yoga London for the first time on 3rd May 2024, forty years after her grandfather, BKS Iyengar, opened the first building of the Iyengar Yoga Institute in London, Maida Vale. The current studio was built on the same site as the original institute building funded by donations from teachers and students along with the money raised by a demonstration given by Guruji at the Barbican. The fact that Abhijata’s visit to teach the UK convention in London coincided with the 40th anniversary of Iyengar Yoga London felt particularly auspicious. As Guruji explained in his opening speech for [...]
BKS Iyengar’s Speech at the Opening of the Maida Vale Institute, 12th May 1984
18 April 2024|
Below are extracts from a speech given by BKS Iyengar in 1984 at the opening of what was then called the Iyengar Yoga Institute in Maida Vale, known today as Iyengar Yoga London. BKS Iyengar's words convey how important it was to him to have established a yoga centre in London as a hub from which the benefits of the practice could be spread far and wide. He also describes his expectations of his students and the profound and practical wisdom of the yoga sutras of Patanjali. "As you are all aware, today’s function is just a formal one since [...]
NEW Hybrid Classes
5 September 2023|
NEW Hybrid Classes We are introducing hybrid classes to the timetable this month. Hybrid classes are studio classes that are simultaneously livestreamed and made available to students remotely. Initially we are offering two weekly hybrid classes: Monday General Level with Judy Smith 10.30AM – 12.00PM Tuesday General Level with Megan 9.30 – 11.00AM These classes are listed on the timetable as Livestream (Hybrid) to differentiate them from pure Livestream classes. Hybrid Class Prices The price to attend a Hybrid Class in the studio is the same as a regular studio class, £14.25 for members and £18.50 for visitors. However, [...]
Geeta Iyengar on Why We Practise Difficult Asanas
26 June 2023|
Why practise difficult asanas? Light on Yoga can be considered as one of the classical texts on yoga in the modern era, having inspired and continuing to enthuse millions. But there is a group of readers who get nervous and overwhelmed by seeing the advanced asanas like the Eka Pada Sirsasana cycles and balancing asanas. The sceptical mind questions whether we need to practise these advanced asanas to enable a higher level of consciousness. Geeta lyengar answered this question during the New Zealand lyengar Yoga Convention in 2003. A transcript of her answer is reproduced here. In fact, this [...]
Research Article – Yoga for People living with Multiple Sclerosis
13 February 2023|
Research Article - Yoga for People living with Multiple Sclerosis Yoga therapy teacher, Korinna Pilafidis-Williams, runs a class for neurological conditions including multiple sclerosis and parkinsons at Iyengar Yoga London. MS is an incurable neurodegenerative and chronic inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system. In Europe and North America, it is the most common cause of neurological disability in young adults, with diagnosis normally between 20-40 years. Symptoms of MS vary but can include depression, fatigue, chronic pain, muscle weakness, spasticity, decreased strength, balance and gait problems. All of these can lead to reduced physical activity and increased risk [...]
Join the Iyengar Yoga Community for Ukraine Facebook Group
3 October 2022|
Polish Iyengar yoga teacher, Monika Salitra, has set up a Facebook group for Iyengar yogis who want to help members of the Iyengar yoga community of Ukraine. They are in contact with Ukrainian yoga teachers to find out what they need and coordinating support. Find out more and join the group here https://www.facebook.com/groups/997939554414283
The Iyengar Yoga London Annual House Photographer Competition
22 July 2022|
Iyengar Yoga London is looking for a talented individual to act as House Photographer for one year. Photography has been central to the popularisation of Iyengar yoga with the extraordinary images in Light On Yoga. This competition poses the creative challenge of capturing our much-loved building, our diverse community and the ethos of Iyengar yoga with its focus on precision, alignment and study. Open to photography students and aspiring professional photographers in the UK. The prize The winner will be the House Photographer for Iyengar Yoga London for one year from the date of the award In addition the winner [...]
3 Cooling yoga poses
19 July 2022|
Did you know that some yoga poses can help lower the temperature of the body? Try the three postures below, recommended by IYL teacher Korinna Pilafidis-Williams and demonstrated here by our Judy Smith, to stay cool and calm in the hot weather this week. Please work to your own capacity for a healthy heatwave! 1. Supta Padangusthasana The leg extended to the side is supported on a bolster and the foot of the leg on the floor is pressed firmly into the wall. Keep both heels strong and legs straight. Lengthen the sides of your trunk. 2. Adho Mukha Upavistha Konasana Forward [...]
October 2022: Professional Development Day with Penny Chaplin
5 July 2022|
Penny will be exploring new poses from syllabus one and two.Qualified Iyengar yoga teachers only. Valid IY(UK) membership is required to attend. Saturday 1 October10.15am - 4.15pm£25 BOOK NOW
Iyengar yogis working to build an inclusive yoga community
21 March 2022|
Fostering diversity: inspirational figures leading the way Here at Iyengar Yoga London we are striving to foster greater diversity and make yoga more accessible – work being led by our Diversity Advisory Group. This determination to build a more inclusive yoga community is shared by Iyengar teachers and students around the world. Many Iyengar yoga teachers are exploring ways to make yoga more accessible and create welcoming spaces for underrepresented people in the Iyengar community. Several inspirational teachers and some of the organisations they are involved with are helping lead the way, as they put new ideas and approaches [...]
Congratulations Aparecida!
10 October 2021|
Aparecida Earl has been a member at Iyengar Yoga London since 2015 and is a volunteer at The Listening Place, a pioneering London charity that provides free, face-to-face ongoing support for those who feel that life is no longer worth living. […]
An interview with Richard Ward
25 August 2021|
Richard Ward is one of the most senior and long-standing teachers at Iyengar Yoga London. Here he shares his yoga beginnings and his first meeting with Guruji with us. […]
Dipika, Issue No. 53 of the Iyengar Yoga London Journal
13 July 2021|
Welcome to another online edition of Dipika. We have been through frightening and depressing times but there are things that may have changed for the better. Zoom has kept us connected to our weekly classes. There are two articles which demonstrate that our regular classes not only keep us flexible and sane, but keep us connected to our teachers and fellow students as well (p.2 and p.12). For many who have embraced this online learning, it has even increased the frequency and intensity of practice. Those of us who follow the path of yoga know that it is not [...]
Amparo Rodriguez on the joys of early morning yoga practice
24 May 2021|
Amparo Rodriguez has been teaching our Wednesday 7.30am Beginners/General level class at Maida Vale for ten years. Here she shares her perspective on the joys and benefits of early morning yoga practice. […]
COVID-19 Crisis In India Charities
2 May 2021|
We are sharing information below that has been circulated by the UK Iyengar Yoga Association. There is a catastrophe unfolding in India, and the situation is particularly bad in Maharashtra. The healthcare system is unable to cope; there are serious shortages of staff, beds and oxygen. India’s crisis is a crisis for us all. A number of you have asked how you can help. Here is a list of some of the leading charities that are working to help the situation in India. Click on the name of a charity to go to their donation page. [...]
Yoga for MS & other Neurological Issues
21 April 2021|
The class for MS & other neurological conditions is run by Korinna Pilafidis-Williams. It was held at the Maida Vale studios until the first lockdown of 2020 when it was moved online and taught as a weekly livestream class. The class is by application, please email office@iyengaryogalondon.co.uk […]
NEW CLASS – Pranayama with Richard Agar Ward
7 April 2021|
We are excited to be adding a new livestream class to our timetable. Richard Agar Ward will be teaching an hour long pranayama class every week starting from Monday 12 April. Join Richard for a grounding start to the week and the chance to build your pranayama skills. This class is suitable for students with two years or more of regular Iyengar yoga experience and costs £6. Please note that livestream classes can only be booked by Iyengar Yoga London members. Membership starts from £10 - find out more.
Livestream General Classes with Dr Rajlaxmi Nidmarti
26 March 2021|
We are delighted to announce that we will be hosting two Livestream Extended General Classes with Dr Rajlaxmi Nidmarti. These classes are suitable for students with two years or more of regular Iyengar yoga practice. […]
Iyengar yoga Self Practice Resources
26 March 2021|
Building self practice, or sadhana, into a regular routine has many benefits. It gives you the opportunity to develop understanding and skill at your own pace and build on what you learn in class. While it is easy to understand why self practice is a good thing, it can be a challenge to make it a part of your day-to-day life. So, we have compiled some resources to help. […]
NEW Livestream Yogacards
3 March 2021|
We have introduced a new way way to purchase livestream classes for Iyengar Yoga London members. The Livestream Yogacard and Concessions Livestream Yogacard are 11 pre-purchased livestream 90 minute classes for the price of 10. Livestream Yogacard £90 11 x 90 minute livestream clases for the price of 10 Valid for 6 months from first use Booking classes online is quicker and easier Please note that you will need to log into your account to purchase. Concessions Livestream Yogacard £50 The concessionary Livestream Yoga Card is 11 livestream 90 minute classes for the price of 10. [...]
Jawahar Bangera Pranayama Classes
28 January 2021|
We are delighted to let you know that we will be hosting two livestreamed Pranayama classes with Jawahar Bangera for Iyengar Yoga London members this February. Not an Iyengar Yoga London Member? You can join us for as little as £10 with our 1 Month Membership which includes a free livestream class. Find out more > The classes are suitable for general level students and above who have been practising Iyengar yoga regularly for at least two years. Saturday 27 February LIVESTREAM Pranayama Class 1.30-3.30 pm Sunday 28 February LIVESTREAM Pranayama Class 1.30-3.30 pm Price £30 Please note that [...]
COVID-19: A Suggested Recovery Programme from the Iyengar Yoga (UK) Therapy Committee
5 January 2021|
The IY(UK) Therapy Committee has created a video and compiled a booklet with a suggested yoga programme to support recovery from Covid-19. […]
9th & 10th January – Extended General Classes with Gulnaaz Dashti
4 January 2021|
We are delighted to announce that we will be hosting two General level livestream classes with Gulnaaz Dashti for Iyengar Yoga London Members this January. You can take out or renew your membership here > Gulnaaz started Yoga at the Pune Institute (RIMYI) under the guidance of B.K.S. Iyengar, Geeta Iyengar and Prashant Iyengar in 1990, when Ali Dashti, her brother, insisted that she should join. Gulnaaz lives in Pune, India - and has been teaching all levels at the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute for over 20 years. In 1998 Gulnaaz was granted a teaching position by B.K.S. [...]
The Pune Shoulder Jacket – try it to counteract hunched shoulders
7 July 2020|
Have you tried The Pune Shoulder Jacket? Our remedial teacher Korinna Pilafidis-Williams demonstrates how to put the Pune 'shoulder jacket' on. This is a great method to counterbalance your shoulder girdle when you've been hunched forward over a computer all day. If you don't have a yoga belt at home and you would like to try this technique, you can find a belt similar to the ones we use at Maida Vale here >
Members online class booking
28 January 2020|
Occasionally classes at Iyengar Yoga London get so busy that Members have been turned away. While not a regular occurrence, this is particularly frustrating for Members who travel from outside and across London to get to class. Online booking already works effectively for Workshops and Pregnancy Classes at Maida Vale. So, we are introducing class booking to our Members so they have priority access to busy classes. A limited number of class places are available to book online. Every class also has drop-in spaces available so you can choose whether to book or not. How it works Visit the [...]
New teachers for Tuesday mornings
25 June 2019|
From 2 July the Tuesday morning General class will be taught by Megan Inglesent and the Beginners class will be taught by Jackie McCaul. 9.30 - 11.00am General - Megan Inglesent 11.15 - 12.45pm Beginners - Jackie McCaul After 18 years of dedicated teaching at Maida Vale, Ofra Graham has stepped down from her regular classes. Her students will be glad to hear that Ofra will continue to provide cover for classes and will return to give workshops.
NEW Friday early morning class
3 June 2019|
This summer we are running a second early morning Beginners/General class with Amparo Rodriguez on Fridays. Join us to make the most of the bright mornings and start your day right! Our early morning classes are 75 minutes long so you have time to practice before you get on with your day. The new Friday class starts on 14 June and will run until the clocks go back. The last class of the season will be Friday 25 October. Wednesdays 7.00-8.15am Fridays 7.00-8.15am Members £8.50 / Non-members £11
Centenary events funds raised – thank you!
7 January 2019|
Thanks to all of you who joined us to make the Centenary events on the 14th & 15th December such a success! The 100 Asana led practice and the evening of entertainment provided by our talented teachers and students were a lot of fun and very well attended. A big thanks also to Judy and Marco.A total of just under £2,250 was raised and will be split equally among: The Bellur Trust, Mind and Crisis. […]
Class changes & welcome to new teachers
27 November 2018|
We are pleased to welcome three new teachers to the regular timetable: […]
Centenary celebrations – booking now open!
16 November 2018|
We will be celebrating the centenary of BKS Iyengar’s birth with two special events, a led practice and a evening of fantastic entertainment by our students. […]
BKS Iyengar Centenary T-shirts – have you got yours?
25 August 2018|
To mark this special year for Iyengar yoga students we have made a commemorative T-shirt designed by our talented resident receptionist and designer Sarah. […]
Nurses – Get half price on all beginners yoga classes
9 April 2018|
We are pleased to announce that we now offer nurses (including trainee nurses, nursing assistants and healthcare assistants, as well as paramedics) a special half price rate of £7 on all Beginners classes. […]
BKS Iyengar practising at RIMYI – photographs by Silvia Prescott
3 November 2017|
Silvia Prescott was one of the teachers who played a key role in finding a site to found an Iyengar yoga centre in Maida Vale. She was also one of those who helped raise the money to make it possible. She was a teacher to many of the teachers currently teaching at Iyengar Yoga London and was a talented photographer, documenting her trips to Pune and the yoga conferences she attended. […]
Charity Workshop – £500 raised!
20 February 2017|
Thank you to everyone who attended the Charity Fundraiser Workshop last weekend. We are delighted to let you know that we raised £500 for our two nominated charities this year, The Brain Tumour Charity and Age UK. […]
Sunday 19 Feb – Charity Fundraiser Workshop
10 January 2017|
Charity Fundraiser Workshop with Rosemary da Silva & Barbara Norvell Sunday 19th February 2017 11.30am - 2.00pm This year our Charity Fundraiser Workshop will support Age UK and The Brain Tumour Charity. The workshop will focus on restorative practice and is open to all members with a minimum of 18 months of regular practice. Numbers will be limited to 16, so please reserve your place in advance on reception and pay in cash on the day. We suggest a minimum donation of £25. Reserve your place on 020 7624 3080
Silvia Prescott
4 November 2016|
One of our most senior and respected teachers, Silvia Prescott, died peacefully at home on Thursday 3 November. Silvia was one of BKS Iyengar's first British students, having practised Iyengar yoga since 1970, and taught at Maida Vale for many years. The funeral will take place at Golder's Green Crematorium on Thursday 17 November at 1.00pm No flowers by request. Donations to Age UK or Shelter will be welcomed. Read Silvia's memories of her teacher BKS Iyengar in The Guardian See Silvia's photographs of BKS Iyengar's practice
Iyengar yoga teacher training – An awakening
10 May 2016|
Susan Collins studied for her Introductory Level Iyengar yoga Teaching Certificate here at Maida Vale. Below she shares some of her reflections and experiences after completing her first year as a teacher. […]
Assessments update – Congratulations to our teachers!
30 November 2015|
BKS Iyengar observed that ‘a good teacher helps you explore to the maximum’ and this description will ring true to anyone who has found themselves leaving a class feeling inspired and restored. It is through dedication to their own development that Iyengar yoga teachers are able to guide their students courageously and safely. We are lucky to have an exceptional group of teachers at Maida Vale and we’re proud to announce that Marco Cannavo, Ofra Graham, Barbara Norvell and Kate Rathod have all recently passed senior assessments. […]
Alaric Newcombe on BKS Iyengar’s ‘Asanas for Emotional Stability’
16 September 2015|
BKS Iyengar’s Asanas for Emotional Stability Senior Iyengar yoga teacher and trainer, Alaric Newcombe, has taught at Iyengar Yoga London since 1991. He holds an annual retreat for teachers, trainees and experienced practitioners. The daily routine includes an hour and a half of pranayama, a three hour asana class and two to three hours of self practice, overseen by Alaric, where students work though the Asanas for Emotional Stability from BKS Iyengar’s book Light On Life. BKS Iyengar’s Asanas for Emotional Stability is a sequence of fifteen supported yoga poses presented with detailed instructions and illustrations on [...]
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