Iyengar Yoga Workshop with Janet MacLeod
Class Information
These classes are ideal for adult students with some experience. This blended format accommodates multiple levels of experience by utilizing the Iyengar method of progressive stages for each pose. With appropriate pacing and the support of props, every student can benefit from the stage that best suits their body. Pay with this link and come prepared to revitalize your practice and renew your energy.
Props are essential for these classes. If you need to purchase any items, please contact us in advance—we’re happy to help. A limited number of props are available at the studio for first-time visitors.
Minimum required: A yoga mat and a strap.
Recommended kit: 3 blankets, 2 blocks, a bolster, a strap, and a mat.
Where: Paleaku Peace Gardens: https://www.paleaku.com/
Parking instructions: Please park in designated Yoga parking at the gardens when you arrive and proceed to the Yoga Classroom. If you want to visit the gardens before or after your class please stop in at the information desk and purchase a day pass.
All classes are $20 and can be paid through the following link or cash at the door
Why Big Island Yoga Center?
At the Big Island Yoga Center we offer Iyengar Yoga, a traditional alignment based practice, geared to the individual needs and capabilities of each student so that the physical, mental and spiritual benefits associated with the practice of the eight limbs of yoga become a tool to living a more fulfilling life.
Joanne Murray
I began practicing at Big Island Yoga Center (BIYC) in 1994 and started teaching there as the primary substitute teacher in 1998, while also joining the Board of Directors. Over the years, BIYC became much more than a yoga studio to me—it became a place of connection, growth, learning, and community. Teaching and practicing there brought deep meaning to my life and offered friendships and experiences I will always treasure. I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to study and practice alongside so many inspiring Iyengar teachers. Darina Archer first drew me to the studio with her warmth, joy, and welcoming spirit. Through her connection with one of her students, Dr. Larry Peebles, BIYC found its original home in Kealakekua. Marcia Carmen later carried the heart of the studio forward with grace, compassion, and dedication until her passing in 2007.
Aadil Palkhivala inspired me to participate in twelve teacher training programs, and his many workshops brought lasting inspiration and learning to our BIYC community. Through the generosity and support of devoted practitioners such as Marjorie Erway, BIYC continued to thrive and serve the community for many years. Since 1989, BIYC has been sustained by a caring circle of students, teachers, and friends. Our original studio above Dr. Peebles’ office in Kealakekua offered a uniquely peaceful and intimate space that touched so many lives. Later, our move to Paleaku Peace Gardens brought an even deeper sense of spirituality and connection to our classes.
As attendance has gradually declined, the studio is no longer able to sustain itself financially. Even so, the spirit and impact of BIYC will continue to live on in the many lives it has touched. Being part of Big Island Yoga Center—as both a student and teacher—has been one of the greatest blessings and joys of my life. I carry immense gratitude for everyone who helped create and sustain this community over the years.
Reagan Breen
Before I even moved to the island in 2005, Big Island Yoga Center welcomed me. I traveled from the mainland several times to attend workshops, beginning with Aadil Palkhivala. Little did I know how much meaning, purpose, community, and fulfillment this Center would bring to my life over the years. Once I became a resident of Hawai‘i, weekly classes anchored me as I adjusted to island life. Marcia Carmen invited me to teach and join the Board of Directors. Practicing yoga was one thing, but teaching it became a gift that continually helped me feel most like myself.
I am deeply grateful for my 21 years with Big Island Yoga Center—for the teachers who came before me, the hundreds of hours of workshops and trainings, my fellow teachers and peers, the board members who helped sustain our nonprofit, and for those who donated because they loved Iyengar yoga so much and appreciated our beautiful studio. I honor those who started the studio decades ago, as well as every student who came through our doors—whether briefly, seasonally, or faithfully week after week. Most especially, I am grateful for the students whose dedication made teaching so meaningful. Your commitment to this shared practice made every effort worthwhile. Now, nearly two years after losing our beloved studio and continuing classes at Paleaku Peace Gardens, it has become clear that attendance has gradually declined and our nonprofit is no longer sustainable.
At the end of 2026, we will close this remarkable chapter. The teachers and Board hope you will join us in the coming months as we continue practicing together and deepening our self-study. Iyengar Yoga has been one of the greatest gifts of my lifetime. Truly, I don’t know where I’d be if it weren’t for this tremendous body of work and the legacy of BKS Iyengar. It has sustained me spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. Its gifts have been given without measure. For anyone who’s practiced yoga for many years knows, once one starts you cannot stop because of what it does for us! Big Island Yoga has been so uniquely special and is very dear to my heart. May the spirit of it live on in you. May it continue to inspire you to keep it alive within!