Class Descriptions

Intro
This comprehensive class covers the basics of Iyengar-style yoga including 30 fundamental poses and principles of alignment and anatomy. Come to this class to build a strong yoga foundation and gain the basic understanding, vocabulary, context, and principles to prepare you to join a Level 1 class at Riverwest Yogashala. This 4-class series may be taken more than once.

Level 1
This class is for beginners who've completed an Intro series. We cover basic standing poses and forward bends, and add beginning backbends and preparatory Pranayama. Some students choose to stay at this level for years, continuing to be challenged and strengthened by these foundational poses.

Level 1-2
This class for continuing students covers more complex poses including more variations in Salamba Sarvangasana (shoulderstand) and preparation for Sirsasana (head balance).

Level 2
For students adept at Salamba Sarvangasana and variations, we will reinforce the basics and introduce more complex poses, including Sirsasana (headstand).

Level 3
Students at this level are expected to be practicing regularly at home, including inversions. We practice more complex poses, more inversions, longer holdings, backbends, and more Pranayama.

Surya Namaskar
Wring out the stress of the week and revitalize for the weekend in this fast-paced class of sun salutations (surya namaskar means salutation to the sun) and linked postures followed by relaxation. This class is designed to be dynamic and strenuous, so advanced beginners/continuing students are welcome.

Free Level 1 Class
The Intro class on the first Sunday of each month is a great opportunity to introduce friends and family to Iyengar yoga, and a great chance for continuing students to get an extra class. Brand new beginners as well as seasoned students are welcome to this class with rotating Yogashala faculty. Please note: this class is open to the first 20 students only. Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to ensure a space.

Free Level 2 Class
The Level 2 class on the second Sunday of each month is vigorous and intended for continuing Iyengar students adept at Sarvangasana and variations. The class will consist of two 40-minute sessions, including standing, seated, and inverted poses. You can take one 40-minute session or stay for both. The second session will close with Savasana. Please note: this class is inappropriate for injured, pregnant, menstruating students, or students without recent and ongoing Iyengar yoga training. This class is open to the first 12 students. Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to ensure a space.