Business Details
33 Years
experience
Expert Iyengar Yoga Classes in Ann Arbor, MI
Founded in 1993, Yoga Focus has been a dedicated space for Iyengar yoga practice and education. Under the leadership of Marlene McGrath since 2023, we continue to provide expert instruction rooted in the methodical, accessible approach developed by BKS Iyengar. Our team of certified instructors brings decades of combined experience, utilizing props and personalized guidance to ensure safe, effective practice for all levels.We emphasize physical alignment, mental clarity, and community building through diverse classes, workshops, and prenatal/postnatal programs. Our studio in Ann Arbor, Michigan, offers a noncompetitive environment where students cultivate body awareness, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being through the transformative practice of yoga.
Services
Iyengar Yoga Classes
Prenatal/Postnatal Yoga
Pranayama Classes
Yoga Workshops
Private Lessons
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of experience in Iyengar yoga instruction
- Our certified instructors use props to ensure safe, personalized alignment
- We provide specialized prenatal/postnatal yoga programs since 2001
- Our noncompetitive environment accommodates all experience levels
- We combine physical practice with breathwork and mindfulness techniques
Associations and certifications
- Iyengar Yoga National Association of the United States
Services
Iyengar Yoga Classes
Our Iyengar yoga classes use props and precise alignment to create accessible practices for all levels. Certified instructors guide students through customized sequences that build strength, improve flexibility, and enhance body awareness. The methodical approach helps reduce stress while developing physical and mental balance through carefully structured postures.
Prenatal/Postnatal Yoga
Specialized classes support women through pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Sequences focus on pelvic alignment, breathwork for labor, and postnatal strengthening with modifications for all trimesters. Instructor Marlene McGrath provides expert guidance based on 20+ years of specialized teaching experience and personal practice during three pregnancies.
Pranayama Classes
Pranayama sessions teach controlled breathing techniques to improve mental clarity and emotional stability. These classes focus on meditative breath patterns in reclined or seated positions, helping students develop lung capacity and achieve deeper states of relaxation through traditional yoga breathing practices.
Yoga Workshops
Periodic workshops explore specific yoga themes like restorative practices, prenatal preparation, and advanced pose techniques. These in-depth sessions provide focused learning opportunities for students to deepen their practice through concentrated study of particular aspects of Iyengar yoga methodology and philosophy.
Private Lessons
Personalized yoga instruction addresses individual needs and goals through customized sessions. Private lessons allow focused attention on specific health concerns, injury recovery, or advanced pose refinement with tailored sequences that complement regular class participation and home practice development.
People
Marlene McGrath
Owner & Lead Instructor
Marlene has taught Iyengar yoga since 2001 with specialized prenatal/postnatal certification. She purchased Yoga Focus in 2023 after completing a multi-year apprenticeship with senior instructors.
Alicia Rowe
Certified Instructor
Alicia offers 15+ years of Iyengar teaching experience with expertise in foundational practices and prop-based alignment techniques for students of all levels.
Pam Spieser-Schneider
Senior Instructor
Pam brings advanced knowledge of pranayama and therapeutic applications of yoga, with 20 years teaching experience and ongoing study with Iyengar senior teachers.
Marly Goff
Certified Instructor
Marly specializes in adapting yoga practices for diverse abilities, offering accessible instruction informed by 12 years of teaching experience and continuous professional development.
Karen Ufer
Founder
Karen established Yoga Focus in 1993 as Michigan's first dedicated Iyengar studio. She developed the school's educational framework before transitioning ownership in 2023.
Questions
What is Iyengar yoga and how is it different?
Iyengar yoga emphasizes precise alignment using props like blocks and straps. Our certified instructors teach methodical sequences that accommodate all levels through personalized modifications.
What class levels do you offer?
We offer classes for all levels including Beginner, Supported, Open Level, Pranayama, and specialized Prenatal/Postnatal sessions with both in-person and online options available.
Are prenatal yoga classes available for beginners?
Yes, our prenatal classes welcome all experience levels. Instructor Marlene McGrath provides specialized instruction for pregnancy with modifications to support each trimester.
What payment options exist for yoga classes?
We accept cash, check, credit card, and PayPal payments. Reduced fees are available upon request, with class packages and single-class options for flexibility.
Do you offer yoga workshops?
Yes, we host periodic workshops on topics like prenatal preparation, restorative practices, and specific pose techniques with registration available through our website.
Can I attend a single yoga class before committing?
Yes, first-time students can try a single class for $20 (prenatal) or $25 (general) with drop-in options available for most regular sessions.
Reviews (2)
Nancy McKay
Jun 07, 2018
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Excellent teachers with decades of experience. Thorough instructions for proper alignment in poses. Lovely studio with good parking.
Edward Goldman
Jan 07, 2017
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Excellent teachers who watch and professionally guide your practice so that it is safe and focused on your improvement
