Question 1

I am not flexible and I have never done yoga. Can I still come?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The practice starts from sensation rather than from a shape you have to reach, so there is nothing to be able to do beforehand. Classes are gentle and attentive, and nothing is scored.

Question 2

Do I have to want to teach?

Accepted Answer

No. Most people who practise here are not teachers and have no plans to be. The trainings were built for practitioners as well as teachers, so you are welcome if you simply want to go deeper.

Question 3

I am older, or carrying an injury. Is this suitable?

Accepted Answer

The classes and online practice are gentle and self-paced, with no pushing and no competitive shapes, so most people can work at their own level. For the residential trainings, which are full and intensive days, write first and describe what is going on so Parveen can tell you honestly whether it is the right time.

Question 4

How is this different from the yoga I have done before?

Accepted Answer

Most yoga teaches you to copy a shape. Embodied practice works the other way round: you start from breath, weight and contact with the floor, and the shape arrives on its own. It draws on classical Indian dance, anatomy, breath work and non-dual philosophy.

Question 5

Will I be pushed into difficult postures?

Accepted Answer

No. There are no handstands to work towards and no hands-on adjustments pushing you further. Parveen's position is that a change in attitude matters more than a change in action.

Question 6

Do I need props or a special space?

Accepted Answer

A mat and enough floor space to lie down and move your arms is enough for the online classes. Anything else can be improvised from cushions and blankets.

Question 7

What is the cheapest way to find out if I like it?

Accepted Answer

The free monthly Full Moon Purnima session. It is posted free on the Patreon, you do not need a paid membership to see it, and there is nothing to commit to.

Question 8

What do I get on the Patreon?

Accepted Answer

Weekly recorded classes and the full back catalogue, which you can practise with at your own pace and revisit as often as you like.

Question 9

Is there a teacher near me?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. Teachers who have trained with Parveen teach in Malaysia, India, France and the United States, among other places.

Question 10

What is the difference between the 50, 200 and 300 hour trainings?

Accepted Answer

The 50-hour is the shortest way into the method itself and is often taken before deciding on anything longer. The 200-hour is the foundation training, 24 days. The 300-hour is the advanced training for those who have completed a 200-hour, 28 days.

Question 11

How do I apply?

Accepted Answer

Send an application through this site with your name, email, phone number and which programme interests you. Parveen will write back about availability and whether it is the right fit.

Question 12

Will I get to teach during the 200-hour training?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The final week of the 200-hour training is given over to practicums, where you teach and receive feedback, so you finish with real hours of group teaching behind you.

Question 13

Can I come to RasAnubhava, the summit?

Accepted Answer

Only if you have trained and practised with Parveen. It is invite-only and attendance is confirmed by private message, not by booking.

Question 14

Do I need a visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will need a visa to visit India. You can check requirements and apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in.

Question 15

Can someone collect me from the airport?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Pickups can be arranged depending on the location, at additional cost. Ask well in advance.

Question 16

What about food, and dietary requirements?

Accepted Answer

Meals are pure vegetarian. Vegan and gluten-free options are available on request, so mention any requirements when you apply.

Question 17

Will there be any free time?

Accepted Answer

There are free times on longer retreats, and how much varies depending on the nature of the retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this for me?

What actually happens

How to try it

Studying in person

Practical things