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Which class is right for me?
The only thing you have to do as a beginner, is act like a beginner. Iyengar 1 and Flow Foundations are for beginners, those with physical limitations and those who enjoy learning the fundamentals of yoga. Iyengar 1 teaches one pose at a time, giving you the details of each pose. You'll learn about the anatomy of your body and the alignment of each pose in a methodical, unrushed way. Foundations and Flow Foundations also teach the fundamentals of each poses in a safe, welcoming environment. These classes teach basic poses in detail with a focus on breath and movement and include flow sequences, a continuous sequence of actions linked by breath. You should also experience the tranquility of the al-level Relax and Renew.
Those with yoga experience should take Flow (vigorous vinyasa), Heated Flow (challenging asana in heat) or Iyengar Level 2 & 3. If class is too basic or easy, move up a level. If you find yourself in a class over your head, take breaks, do 30% of class, pull down and into child's pose or watch. There is a class for every age and stage of life, every body shape, size, and energy level so read the descriptions on the Offerings page to understand where to start.
What should I wear to class?
Yoga is done barefoot and you can wear comfortable, easy to move in clothes - athletic pants, shorts, sports tops, swim trunks (no jeans). Please avoid perfumes, strong cologne and personal products.
What do I bring and what are the basics?
- Please arrive at least 5-10 minutes before class (you may not get in if you arrive after class starts).
- Plan on staying untill the end of class and ask the instructor's permission if you need to leave early.
- Bring your own mat (and water bottle & towel if attending a Flow class). We offer free communal mats if you forget but strongly recommend using your own for hygienic reasons.
- Turn your cell phone off.
What if I'm really inflexible, can I do yoga?
Absolutely - many students are incredibly stiff when they begin. See Benefits to learn more about how yoga increases strength and flexibility and improves balance, posture and aerobic capacity.
How long are classes and how often should I come?
Most classes run for 75 or 90 minutes. Early morning and lunch classes are 1 hour. How often you come is totally up to you. Your body will receive the benefits of yoga even coming once a week. Most of our students come twice or three times a week (see our unlimted pass which is worth it if you come 2+ times a week). What you do between classes is also important and we strongly encourage students to develop a home yoga practice.
What is the cost and do you offer private yoga classes?
See the Pricing for payment options. We offer 1 hour Privates and 20 minute Tutorials. Know that our Level 1 classes are designed for beginners so you do not need Privates. A good instructor can accommodate everybody by teaching you modifications for poses that are difficult or painful. That said, it is also true that everybody has different limitations, strengths and habits and 1 hour Privates or 20 minute Tutorials are available to ensure your safety and comfort. Private yoga sessions are useful for addressing special concerns and physical issues you may have or for making you feel at ease walking into a public class. Please call the studio to learn more.
Are men welcome?
Of course they are! Some of our most committed practitioners are men, and we also have several male instructors.
Is Down Under a "hot yoga" studio?
Only classes called Heated Flow are at 99 degrees. All other classes are at normal temperature.
What is Iyengar Yoga?
The Iyengar method of yoga teaches one pose at a time with detailed instructions on alignment. Yoga poses are introduced in a carefully sequenced and progressive manner and teachers use props to help beginners or those with physical limitations to experience the poses more fully. Known for its very precise and eloquent explanation of yoga poses, it is named after BKS Iyengar, who TIME magazine called one of "the 100 most influential people on the planet."
What is Vinyasa or Flow yoga?
Vinyasa yoga emphasizes the beauty of movement and breath as the practitioner flows from one pose to the next. Flow classes are a continuous sequence of movements linked by breath. If you're new, try Flow Foundations. If you practice Vinyasa or any active form of yoga, try Flow. If you like Power Yoga/Hot Yoga, take Heated Flow. And if you are seeking to exhale at the end of the day, enjoy our Relax and Renew.