Iyengar Yoga is based on the teachings of Yogacharya B.K.S. Iyengar, who developed an innovative approach to classical hatha yoga. Iyengar yoga emphasizes alignment while developing strength, stamina, flexibility and balance His innovative method sets him apart from other methods of Hatha Yoga because of:
• his emphasis on standing poses,
• Supported inversions and backbends that pacify the nerves,
• The use of props (such as walls, blocks, belts, chairs, blankets, weights, and other devices) to facilitate ease and depth of learning,
• Specific sequencing of postures for general and therapeutic benefits, and
• Careful, individualized adjustments. In Iyengar Yoga time is spent on the development and proper alignment of each asana. Â Precisely guided verbal instruction and visual demonstration helps reinforce the relationship of all parts of the body to the asana, and the asana to the breath and yoga philosophy. Sometimes, poses are held for longer periods of time. An Iyengar Yoga teacher can guide students of all ages and physical conditions to an experience of yoga, which is safe, accessible and rewarding. Students of Iyengar Yoga begin with elementary postures and with an emphasis on the standing asanas (postures). In time, other postures are added, including forward bends and back bends, twists, inversions and restorative poses. A Salamba Sarvangasana (Shoulder Balance) is introduced as soon as students are ready because of its many therapeutic benefits. Each class ends withal Savasana, corpse pose or deep relaxation. Students learn to rest in a profound way, completely releasing the body while drawing the mind towards the peace within. As the student progresses Pranayama (the control of the breath) is introduced. Iyengar with his intellectual and spiritual practices has masterminded the techniques that can be used by all practitioners of yoga. "Research based experience" and "experience based research" has helped him in evolving this technique, which is now known as "Iyengar Yoga". He has therefore made it possible for ordinary human beings to experience the wisdom of the yoga sutras. Iyengar yoga is meant for all and is a way of life. The use of props, designed by Iyengar, such as wooden gadgets, belts, and ropes helps the yoga practitioner to achieve perfection in any asana. Regular practice of 'Iyengar Yoga' definitely integrates the body, mind and emotions. To learn more about B.K.S. Iyengar, visit the Iyengar Yoga National Institute of the United States website at www.iynaus.org
"Venture from the known to unknown."
~ BKS Iyengar
