Newcastle Iyengar Yoga Centre

🧘‍♀️ Pose of the Week: Adho Mukha Svanasana

This week at Newcastle Yoga, we’re exploring Adho Mukha Svanasana, or Downward Facing Dog.
A foundational pose in Iyengar Yoga, often thought of as a resting position, yet it requires both strength and understanding. From the hands and feet, the body extends back and upward, creating length through the spine and steadiness through the arms and legs.

In Iyengar’s teaching, the focus is not on forcing the heels down or deepening the shape, but on establishing firmness at the base and extension through the whole body.

As you practise this week, explore:
• Even weight through hands and feet
• Length through the sides of the body
• Strength in the arms without gripping the shoulders
• A steady, quiet breath

Over time, the pose becomes both grounding and restorative. A place to pause, realign, and observe.
Practised regularly, Adho Mukha Svanasana can support posture, shoulder stability, and clarity through the spine.

Pose of the week will be explored across all classes.
Take your time and notice how the pose develops.
Be steady, and let the shape unfold. 🐶

Weekly Pose Spotlight: Trikonasana

This week at Newcastle Yoga, we’re exploring Trikonasana, also known as Triangle Pose.

A classic standing pose in Iyengar Yoga, Trikonasana teaches us steadiness, extension, and clarity through the whole body.

In Iyengar’s teachings, this pose is far more than “touching your toe”. It’s about creating space, balance, and awareness in every direction.

Legs firm, chest broad, spine long, breath steady, a shape that feels both grounded and expansive.

Practising Trikonasana regularly can help improve posture, mobility through the hips and spine, and awareness of how we stand in everyday life. Whether you’re reaching for groceries, walking the dog, or simply standing a little taller at the kitchen bench.

Be a triangle instead of a square 🔺

Some big (and sad) news to share with our Newcastle Yoga family.
Amanda - the heart behind Newcastle Yoga, is heading back to Melbourne to be closer to family. While we’re sad to see her go, we’re incredibly grateful for everything she has brought to this space and to all of us here.
Amanda founded Newcastle Yoga in 2023, but her teaching journey spans nearly 25 years! As a Senior Iyengar Yoga teacher, teacher trainer and assessor, her depth of knowledge, commitment to the Iyengar lineage and genuine care for students has shaped this studio in profound ways. Amanda has a rare gift for helping people find their path in yoga, no matter their age, body, health or experience, and for taking the practice well beyond the physical, into something deeply empowering and life-changing.
Many of us have felt that firsthand.

As we farewell Amanda, we’re also excited to share that Jessie will be stepping into the role of owner at Newcastle Yoga. Jessie discovered Iyengar yoga in 2019 and was drawn to its discipline, intelligence and adaptability, especially through pregnancy and postnatal life. Jessie has a deep respect for the existing Iyengar community here and is committed to caring for what’s already been built, while gently supporting the studio into its next phase.

Thank you, Amanda, for your generosity, your steadiness and your wisdom 🤍
And welcome, Jessie! we’re really glad you’re here and can’t wait for this new chapter of Newcastle Yoga 🙏

‼️New Year 3-Day Iyengar Intensive‼️

Join us in bringing in the New Year with intention, steadiness and clarity.
Over three mornings, Michele will guide you through an immersive Iyengar practice focused on alignment, strength, flexibility and mindful breath.
A considered flow, followed by restorative poses and pranayama to rebalance and (much needed) reset.

• Jan 2-4
• 8:30am–10:30am
• 90-minute practice
• 30-minute restorative/pranayama
• $89 - Includes access to all three classes
• Suitable for developing and experienced students.

~ Spaces are limited so make sure you book now to secure your place and start your year grounded, aligned and connected ~

LINK IN THE BIO!!

📣Newcastle Yoga November Newsletter hot off the press 🗞️🧘‍♀️

Newcastle Yoga November Newsletter Thank you all for your kind words and encouragement during this transition of ownership. As many of you know, my main reason for stepping into this role is simple: I would’ve been lost if the studio closed. I know many of you feel the same, and I’m deeply grateful that we can continue growing ou...