Iyengar Yoga at Yoga Centre Toronto

    Iyengar Yoga is a precise, systematic method of Yoga as developed by BKS Iyengar of Pune India.  The primary focus is on concentrated movements to fine tune the body and to increase mobility, stability, strength and alignment.  The intense concentration draws the attention inward, quieting and integrating the mind and body.Iyengar Yoga is yoga for health.  It involves techniques for the well-being of both body and mind.
    At YCT the primary focus is on the disciplines of the postures or asanas and the breath.  These are taught under the guidance of certified teachers.  One works at one’s own level with the postures.  Postures are introduced gradually and systematically and eventually include standing poses, inversions, forward bends, backbends, and twists as well as positions for both quiet reflection and complete relaxation.
Properly understood and synchronized with the breath, these asanas (postures) help to exercise, strengthen, balance and cleanse every system of the body; musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, immune, digestive, nervous, and respiratory.  In doing so they also calm and centre the mind.
    While yoga asana evolved to prepare the mind for meditation, it is also ideal for counteracting
the stresses of daily life.  Further, the exercises may be adapted for all ages and levels of fitness. 
Iyengar Yoga lends itself to the special needs resulting from injury, illness and chronic disease. 

Enrichment Program
This program is designed for students who wish to have a guided experience in Iyengar Yoga.  Participants are encouraged to move yoga from practice to a life style and to apply the model of yoga to daily life.
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Teacher Training Program

This program is based on the apprenticeship model and requirements designed by BKS Iyengar of Pune, India.  Applicants must be 25 years of age (or older), have three years experience in level 2/3 classes and workshops with a recognized certified Iyengar Yoga teacher.

Foundations Program
The Foundations Program consists of 6 classes at a cost of $93.00 which should be taken consecutively, one class per week and can be started at anytime.  Each class is 1.25 hours in length.  The Foundation Program is a prerequisite to Level 1.  Every student arrives with varying physical and yoga backgrounds.  If you feel at anytime that you may be ready to move to Level 1, please discuss this with your teacher.  It is essential that Foundations students arrive 20-30 minutes before the start of their first class to register and complete a Health History form. 

Yoga for Seniors
These classes present the classical Iyengar Yoga asanas appropriately adapted to meet the needs of seniors.  Special consideration is given to limited mobility, joint problems, etc.

Cardiac Program

This program offers a special practice designed to support the requirements of cardiac patients.  The sequence of supported, restorative asanas is helpful in the recovery process.
Pre-registration required.

Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis

Iyengar Yoga is effective in increasing muscle control, eye coordination and balance.  Attention will be given to each individual’s physical requirements and energy level.  Our experience has been that a yoga practice improves the quality of life for those who live with MS. 

Prenatal Yoga

Yoga Centre Toronto’s Prenatal Class is specifically designed to support an expectant mother during her pregnancy.  This program is a series of supported yoga positions designed to enhance a healthy pregnancy and delivery.  Expectant mothers may start at any time and continue for the duration of their pregnancy.  No previous yoga experience is required. 

Back Care Program
This program is designed for people who suffer from chronic and/or acute back pain.
Students are assisted with the aid of props to overcome their pain and are then
guided through a series of asanas to develop the necessary strength and stability
for eventual reintegration into regular asana classes. Pre-registration is required.

Special Practices Program

The Special Practices Program is for students who are practicing yoga as part of their recovery process in such cases as cancer recovery, chronic fatigue syndrome, asthma, etc.  In this program a practice is designed to meet the needs of each individual student.
Pre-registration required.