Ways to practise

[To confirm with Narayan Sir: which of these he teaches, and in which batches. Drawn from the old website.]

1. 01General practiceThe whole method: asana, pranayama and meditation together.

   Precision, alignment and awareness, with props to make the postures accessible and safe. Breath and body are practised as one.

   • Posture, joint stability and spinal alignment
   • Strength, flexibility and endurance, built up gradually
   • Mindful movement and attention to the breath
   • Suitable for different ages and different bodies
2. 02Therapeutic practiceFor stiffness, pain and long-standing complaints.

   A structured, prop-supported approach that supports the body in rehabilitation and ongoing care. It works alongside medical treatment and physiotherapy, never in place of them.

   • The spine and back, neck and shoulders, knees and joints
   • Breath and circulation, and the organs the practice reaches inwards to
   • Calming the nervous system, and easing stress
   • Preventive care and long-term maintenance
3. 03Pranayama and meditationBreath and attention, taught with care.

   Traditional breathing practice and meditation that calm the nervous system and quieten the mind. Taught as part of the whole method, not as a separate technique.

4. 04Weight managementSteady, sustainable, and without extremes.

   Alignment and controlled movement, with graded sequencing and props, so the practice is accessible to every body type. The emphasis is on consistency and mindful habits, not rapid or extreme change.

   • Strength in the large muscle groups
   • Posture and body awareness
   • Care for the knees, hips and spine
   • Calming the nervous system, so stress weighs less
5. 05YouthFor the growing years.

   A structured beginning for young practitioners, with attention to posture and alignment as the body grows.

   • Strength, coordination and stamina, safely built
   • Concentration, discipline and self-responsibility
   • Emotional awareness, and ways to steady restlessness
6. 06Women's healthThrough every stage of life.

   Practice that supports women's physical and emotional wellbeing, adapted with props and precise alignment for safety and comfort, from adolescence to menopause.

   • Menstrual health and cycle-related discomfort
   • Pelvic health and strength
   • Easing stress and emotional strain
   • Support before and after pregnancy
7. 07PregnancySafe, steady and comfortable.

   A carefully structured practice that uses Iyengar props and guided alignment, adapted to each trimester and each woman. Gentle and unhurried. The four stages are below.

   1. 1First trimesterGentle poses, with the focus on stability.
   2. 2Second trimesterModified standing poses and opening of the pelvis.
   3. 3Third trimesterSupported, restorative poses and breathing.
   4. 4After the birthA gradual return to practice, and recovery of the pelvic floor.

Come and practise