Frequently Asked Questions:

Is yoga for me?
Who will teach me?
How does Iyengar Yoga differ from other forms of yoga?
What do I need to know before class?



Is yoga for me?
Absolutely! It’s never too early or too late to start your yoga practice. Yoga Vidya offers classes and private lessons for kids, teens, and adults. Furthermore, our personalized approach addresses any particular physical needs or injuries, ensuring your safety and promoting well-being. 



Who will teach me?
Develop your practice under the guidance of the western suburbs’ most knowledgeable and experienced yoga professionals. All our teachers are certified in the Iyengar Method, a curriculum widely considered one of yoga’s most rigorous training programs. Instructors also undergo regular examinations to ensure their teaching practice develops according to guidelines of the Iyengar Yoga National Association of the United States.

Read more about our instructors >

Interested in becoming an Iyengar Yoga Teacher? >



How does Iyengar Yoga differ from other forms of yoga?

Under the guidance of our caring and knowledgeable teachers, students of all ages and physical conditions can experience the full benefits of yoga — in a safe, accessible and rewarding way. Classic asanas (yoga postures) can be modified as needed for individual students with the use of props such as blocks, blankets and belts. Props allow for a deeper penetration into the posture, allowing students to easily and more fully experience the benefit of an asana that may not otherwise be possible without years of practice. Our extensively trained teachers focus on each individual guiding them to reach their individual potential, and develop a practice that helps to awaken the bodies intelligence.

Iyengar Yoga helps one to develop a strong, centered yoga practice that helps build and maintain physical strength and balance, and a sharp, calm mind — uniting the body and mind for  health and well-being — a powerful tool for managing the stresses of our daily life.



What do I need to know before class?

We ask that you:

Arrive a few minutes early to class. If you arrive late and we are already in a seated position please wait to enter until after the invocation.

Practice on an empty stomach. Allow at least three hours after eating before practicing yoga. We recommend that you refrain from sipping water during class in order to maintain the internal heat you are creating. Food may be taken 1/2 hour after completing asanas. Please leave your water bottles in your car or at the entrance to the studio.

Leave all cellular phones and pagers outside the asana room. If you have your phone with you, please keep it on silent, however if in the case of an emergency please let the teacher know before class that you need your phone readily available.

Remove your shoes before entering. As well as honoring Eastern tradition you will help keep the floor you'll soon be practicing on clean.

Wear clothing that is easy to move in. Modest comfortable shorts or leotards and footless tights are suggested. Long baggy pants are not recommended and bare feet are essential.

On personal hygiene: Although we provide mats in class it's a good idea to purchase your own. Having your own mat serves you energetically and hygienically. Please refrain from wearing perfume and heavy jewelry.

If you have any medical conditions or special physical needs including pregnancy, or are recovering from an illness, consult your physician before attending a class and please inform your teacher before the start of class.