About Iyengar Yoga
Iyengar Yoga focuses on correctly aligning the body to improve general posture, breathing and circulation. It encourages an experience of the asanas as a form of ‘meditation in action.’
B.K.S. Iyengar (a.k.a. ‘Guruji’)is the founder of this system of yoga. From a young age, he dedicated his life to experimenting with yoga postures and noting the effects that each one had. He began teaching at age 17 and continued to do so until his death at age 95 in 2014. During these years he became known for his skill as a yoga therapist. Guruji is widely considered to be one of the most important and influential yogacharyas (yoga masters) of contemporary times. The Iyengar legacy is carried on by his son, Prashant, and his granddaughter, Abhijata.
Certified Iyengar Yoga teachers can effectively guide students of all ages and abilities. Deep-seated understanding and experience of the yoga asanas (postures) allows instructors to teach younger, older, athletic and physically limited students. From the first class, Iyengar Yoga develops strength, stamina, coordination and flexibility. Students are not just led through the poses; they are taught the biomechanical principles that pertain to asanas. Students are encouraged to develop a home yoga practice, in order to progress rewardingly, experience greater benefits, and deepen their understanding. Learn how to start building your practice at home.
Iyengar Yoga Overview
- Classes are sequenced to promote health and skill in the body and stability in the mind.
- Students begin with basic standing poses maturing to forward bends, back bends, twists, inversions, restorative poses and pranayama (breath control).
- Props such as blankets, blocks, belts, chairs, and wall ropes are used to help students benefit from the poses regardless of their physical condition or level of experience.