This 8-weekend program offers a progressive approach to Iyengar Yoga, covering major asana families, pranayama basics, foundational philosophy, and essential methodology.
We explore the Level 1 syllabus, progressing from fundamental actions toward more intermediate expressions of Level 1 poses, building stability while gradually expanding capacity with intelligence and care.
Eight weekends from February 7 through March 29, 2026.
Saturdays: 10 am–1 pm and 2 pm–5 pm (6 hours/day)
Sundays: 9 am–1 pm and 2 pm–5 pm (7 hours/day)
This program is ideal for dedicated practitioners with at least one year of yoga experience (any kind) who wish to deepen their practice or prepare for future teacher training. It is also recommended for students who want to build a solid foundation before entering the mentorship with Kathy Cook in July 2026.
Prerequisite: some familiarity with Shoulder Stand (Sarvāṅgāsana).
Throughout the course, we will explore the Level I syllabus, progressing from its fundamental actions toward more intermediate expressions of Level I poses. This allows you to build stability and understanding while gradually expanding your capacity with intelligence and care.
You'll learn to understand the shapes of each asana family and see how sequencing supports the overall practice.
Throughout the program, you will also explore basic yoga philosophy, how to work with common stiffness or limitations, intelligent use of props, observation skills, and elements of sequencing and self-practice.
These hours count toward Yoga Alliance Continuing Education credits.
Feb 7-8
Arm and leg directions
Footwork
Hip orientation
Working with bent knees
Balance and stability
Twists
Forward bending actions
These asanas teach grounding, symmetry, and the principles of extension that support all later work.
Feb 14-15
Classical seated positions
Leg variations
Arm placements to open the chest and extend the spine
Students cultivate lift, quietness, and the ability to maintain steadiness with ease.
Feb 21–22
Seated forward bends
Preparatory variations with different leg positions
The relationship between hamstrings, spine, and breath
Forward extensions cultivate inwardness, patience, and softness while maintaining structure.
Feb 28-Mar 1
Side bends
Seated twists
Use of the chair for support and direction
These poses awaken the ribs, diaphragm, and spine, bringing clarity to the organic body.
Mar 7-8
Sīrṣāsana
Sarvāṅgāsana and variations
Halāsana and supported variations
Emphasis is on preparation, confidence, and learning correct alignment. Students develop courage, concentration, and a quiet inner environment.
Mar 14-15
Study of core-supporting asanas that stabilize the pelvis and spine.
These poses build strength, stamina, and awareness of the center.
Mar 21-22
A progressive and supported approach to:
Bhujangasana
Urdhva Mukha Śvānāsana
Dhanurāsana
Setu Bandha Sarvāṅgāsana
Uṣṭrāsana
Students learn how to open the chest, integrate the legs, and support the spine safely while cultivating energy and vibrancy.
Mar 28-29
Coordination of movement and breath
Establishing rhythm and heat
Integrating the learning from standing and backward extensions into flow
Each week includes restorative time to balance effort with recovery:
Viparita Karani
Supta Virasana
Supta Baddha Konasana
Forward extensions for quietness and more
Savasana
This helps consolidate learning, soothe the nervous system, and develop sensitivity.
Lead Teacher
Senior Iyengar Teacher & Accessor
Assiting Teacher
Level-I Certified Iyengar Yoga teacher
Lisa is known for her fun, uplifting teaching style. After years of weight training, she discovered yoga's power to bring kindness, awareness, and balance to the body.
Lisa owned a yoga studio in Australia for four years before teaching across Nepal, India, the Philippines, Australia, and Bali. Since 2013, she has made regular study trips to Pune, and in 2015 trained with senior teacher Br. Rudra Dev in Rishikesh.
Based in Bali, Lisa began Iyengar mentorship with Kathy Cook and Sri Nanda Kumarkumar in 2021 and continues her Level II mentorship today. She shares practical wisdom, intelligent sequencing, and a joyful approach that helps students open both body and mind.
Questions?
If you have any other questions, please chat with us or email us at hello@desayogi.com.
Yes. You will receive a Certificate of Completion from our studio.
If you are a Yoga Alliance–registered teacher, these 100 hours can also count toward your Continuing Education credits.
Yes, partial attendance is possible, as long as you meet the program prerequisites: at least one year of yoga experience and familiarity with Shoulder Stand (Sarvāṅgāsana).
Please note that full attendance is encouraged for the best learning experience.
No prior Iyengar experience is required. The program is designed to introduce you to Iyengar methodology while meeting you at your current level of practice.
This course is beginner-friendly but not for complete beginners.
Students must have at least one year of yoga experience in any tradition and feel comfortable with basic standing poses. The program gradually progresses into more integrated expressions of Level 1 asanas.
Please reach out to us before registering. Some injuries or stages of pregnancy may require modifications, and we want to ensure the program is safe and appropriate for your needs.
This program offers a progressive, structured curriculum that builds from weekend to weekend. Unlike drop-in classes, you will follow a clear path through the Level 1 syllabus, learn sequencing principles, refine alignment, and develop a steady personal practice. Each session builds on the last, creating continuity and a deeper understanding.
Yes. This program provides the foundations, discipline, and technical understanding needed for further study. It is recommended for students planning to join the mentorship with Kathy Cook in July 2026 or those considering future teacher training.
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