Iyengar yoga is a complete approach to physical, mental and spiritual well-being. These classes explore the fundamentals of yoga, with an emphasis on alignment, developing strength, flexibility, stamina and concentration.

"The Iyengar method develops self-awareness, intelligent evaluation, and profound inward reflection."

Level I Iyengar Class - Back to Basics:  Friday evenings, 5:30pm-6:30 pm

This class at YogaMonkey is for new Iyengar Yoga students as well as those who wish to bring a deeper understanding and integrity to their yoga practice.  Whether starting at the beginning or going back to the basics, you will gain a strong foundation of the fundamentals of the poses.  Standing poses, seated poses, twists as well as some basic inversions will be taught.

Mixed Level II Iyengar Class:  Tuesdays 5:30pm-7:00pm & Thursdays 9:30am-11:00am

This class at YogaMonkey is for students who have some yoga experience.  Basic postures are refined and Sirsasana (headstand), full arm balance, backbends, and pranayama are introduced.

Beside the open classes at YogaMonkey in Woodstock, Leah also teaches private classes at her Woodstock home studio.  Please contact her for an appointment.

How Your Iyengar Teacher Is Trained from The Iyengar Yoga Association of Greater NY

The Iyengar certification process is highly rigorous, assuring you of an instructor who practices and is well trained in the art, science, and philosophy of yoga. Prospective teachers confirm their dedication through years of studying yoga.  Additional teacher training includes the study of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, philosophy, and practical teaching methods.  Candidates for certification apply to an assessment process that includes recommendations by mentoring teachers, a review of study and teaching experience, and a comprehensive, three-part examination.

Prospective teachers must show proficiency in performance of the asanas, or postures, and take a written exam on philosophy, anatomy, and practical knowledge of teaching.

In the third and most important part of the test, the candidate is observed teaching a class and assessed by a panel of senior teachers.

This process is repeated a year or two later, with additional postures and more comprehensive evaluation. Teachers are granted full certification at the Introductory level only after satisfactorily completing all parts of this examination process, which takes place over several years.  Full certification allows the teacher to use the official Iyengar Certification Mark shown below.