WHAT IS IYENGAR
YOGA?
Iyengar yoga is
Hatha yoga based on the teaching of BKS Iyengar. Based on the traditional
eight limbs of yoga as expounded by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutra, Iyengar
yoga is a perfect integration of the philosophy of yoga with the practice
of the posture (asanas).
The teaching methodology is based on solid principles of anatomy and
physiology, a precise language to facilitate learning and postural transformation,
and individual corrections and adjustments.
This type of yoga is characterized by the use of props, such as blocks,
blankets, belts and chairs which are meant to improve the quality and
the benefits coming from the asanas, as well as to ease various ailments.
Body alignment, class sequencing and a strong emphasis on standing poses
are the distinguishing keys used to develop strength, flexibility, concentration
and a better posture.
This is a dynamic type of yoga that brings you physical health, energy
and spiritual transformation.
WHO IS BKS IYENGAR?
BKS Iyengar is one
of the most respected yoga teachers in the world. He is responsible
for introducing yoga to the West and today his method has become one
of the most practiced forms of yoga in Europe and America.
In 1966, "Light on Yoga," was published. It gradually became
an international best seller and was translated into 17 languages. Often
called “the bible of yoga,” it succeeded in making yoga
well known throughout the world. This was later followed by many other
publications on the subject of pranayama and various aspects of yoga
philosophy.
BKS Iyengar is the
author of the most authoritative books on the subject of yoga, many
of which have been translated in 27 languages. In 2004 TIME magazine
included him in the list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
For a complete list of his books, please visit the RESOURCES.
Mr. Iyengar has
also developed extensively ways of applying his practice to various
ailments, diseases, and disorders. Many of these sources of suffering,
from chronic backache to high blood pressure to insomnia to depression,
have specific programs of Iyengar yoga associated with them, and recovery
from such ailments through targeted yoga practice often outstrips other
forms of physical therapy and sometimes even medicine.
Iyengar has trained thousands of teachers, who complete 2-5 years of
rigorous training for the introductory level of certification (higher-level
certification may take a decade or more).
" Yoga has
a triple impact on your health. It keeps healthy people healthy. It
helps to cure those who are ill. It prevents the development of illnesses.
” BKS Iyengar
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