Experience Iyengar Yoga with Maria

Iyengar Yoga focuses on precision and alignment of the body through the practice of Asana or postures. In time improving overall strength and awareness of the body, mind and breath.

The system focuses on a structured build up of asanas, assisted by the use of props, making classes suitable for beginners through to advanced students, so that regardless of your abilities, age or flexibility the practice is open to all.

"Yoga is like music. The rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind and the harmony of the soul creates the symphony of life."  BKS Iyengar
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Group of diverse adults practicing side plank yoga poses on purple mats in a bright studio.

What is Iyengar Yoga?

A yoga system established by BKS Iyengar fondly known as Guruji. A practice that emphasises precision and alignment in the postures (Asana). The home of Iyengar is based in Pune and Maria continues to be taught by teachers who come from or have studied at the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute.
Iyengar yoga is accessible to all. Regular practice increases flexibility, strength and stamina, improving concentration, posture, balance and quietening of the mind to promote wellbeing. It is a practice that incorporates meditation in action, harmonising the mind and body.

The use of props will be a big part of your practice allowing you to understand and assist in the safe execution of asana as well as deepening self knowledge.

' Even in simple asanas, one is experiencing the three levels of quest; the external quest which brings firmness of the body; the internal quest which brings steadiness of intelligence; and the innermost quest which brings benevolence of spirit." BKS Iyengar
Group of five women doing side angle yoga pose on purple mats using yoga blocks in a bright studio.
Three women practicing forward bend yoga using metal folding chairs on purple mats in a bright room.
Group yoga class with participants on purple mats following instructor in a wide-legged standing pose in a bright studio.
Yoga instructor assists middle-aged woman in side stretch pose during a group yoga class with several participants on purple mats.
Group of people practicing yoga in a studio, standing barefoot on purple mats, stretching legs apart with yoga blocks nearby.

Classes begin with a moment of quiet and preparation.

Our generous 90 minutes classes give us plenty of time to warm up and to complete the practice in relaxation.

We sequence the class to develop strength, flexibility, stamina, concentration and relaxation, with asana suitable for the level of student experience and ability.

Clear demonstrations, explanation, and individual correction and adjustments where necessary.
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Experience the benefits of Iyengar Yoga

Regular practice of Iyengar Yoga will quickly bring noticeable improvements to your flexibility, in both body and mind. This overall feeling of wellbeing, confidence and clarity will help you deal with the challenges of day to day life with equilibrium.
Group of people practicing shoulder stand yoga pose on purple mats in a bright studio with wooden floor.
Body

You'll notice improvements in your flexibility, strength and stamina whilst experiencing reduced muscle and joint pain. Added to this your posture, circulation and breath will benefit too.

Group of people performing a stretching yoga pose on purple mats using cork blocks in a bright room.
Mind

Balancing of the mind comes with meditation in action. The disciplined of asana (postures) results in the easing of anxiety, stress and emotional tensions. With practice, the ability to quieten, focus and concentrate the mind enhances overall wellbeing.

Group of adults lying on wooden floor in a yoga studio using purple blocks and mats for support during relaxation pose.
Breath

Our classes encourage breath awareness - Pranayama, which will help you stay balanced and focused. This practice is introduced slowly once an understanding of asana is established. Enhancing lung function and capacity.

Woman in white long-sleeve top and black leggings doing seated side stretch yoga pose using a metal chair on a purple yoga mat indoors.

Meet your teacher!

I am Maria Bird, the owner and creator of Orchard Life™.

I am passionate about teaching Iyengar Yoga and love observing the positive changes that regular and disciplined practice brings to those that embrace the method.

Orchard Life™ is the centre I have been fortunate to create; providing a peaceful haven for my students; a safe space to learn and develop their own practice. Everyone is equally welcome, encouraged and guided in their yoga journey.

As a practitioner and teacher of Iyengar Yoga for over 30 years. I hold a Level 2 certificate and continue to train with teachers from the around the world and, most importantly, from the prestigious Iyengar Centre in Pune, India.

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"I have been attending Maria's Iyengar yoga classes for eight years and I have really benefitted from the strength and flexibility that I am developing. Maria is a very thorough teacher and gives careful and detailed instructions, whether you are a beginner or intermediate student. Maria encourages everyone to challenge themselves but recognises that we all have differing levels of abilities"
Clarie B

Iyengar Class Timetable

We run classes for all levels throughout the week, please email or call me to book into a class. Term time booking only as spaces are limited.
Last update:
December 19, 2022
Beginner

New to Iyengar Yoga

General

Students who progress from the beginners group and are able to work towards intermediate poses.

Intermediate

Students who have been practicing Iyengar yoga for a minimum of a year and are able to hold Sirsasana and Sarvangasana.

Monday
07:30
-
09:00
Iyengar Yoga
Zoom only for students of the Iyengar system
17:30
-
19:00
Iyengar Yoga
Beginners/improvers Class
19:30
-
21:00
Iyengar Yoga
Intermediate Class
Wednesday
09:00
-
10.30
Iyengar Yoga
Intermediate Class
13:00
-
14:30
Iyengar Yoga
General Class
Thursday
17:30
-
19:00
Iyengar Yoga
Beginners Class
19:30
-
21:00
Iyengar Yoga
General Class
Friday
06:30
-
08:00
Iyengar Yoga
Beginners / Improvers Class
09:30
-
11:00
Iyengar Yoga
General Class

Join one of our classes today!

Contact details

Please contact our therapists / teachers directly if you have any questions or if you would like to book a session with them.

Phone
Mobile
07989 403 167
Email
mariayogalife@gmail.com
Online Booking
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Website
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