About Iyengar Yoga

BKS Iyengar

We are passionate about Iyengar Yoga (www.iyengaryoga.asn.au) – a form of classical yoga developed by Yogacharya BKS Iyengar (1918-2015), one of the world’s foremost exponents of this ancient art, science and philosophy. Through his own practice over many years, careful study of the earliest available texts, and his teaching to hundreds of thousands of students worldwide, he reached back to the roots of yoga and revitalized this ancient knowledge.  One of Mr. Iyengar’s biggest contributions was to bring yoga to the West—to demystify it by demonstrating that yoga is open to all regardless of age, creed or infirmity.

Iyengar-b-thisone

Iyengar Yoga is different from other styles of yoga.  

  • Iyengar Yoga emphasises precision and alignment in the postures. This enables correct positioning of the physical and physiological body and the proper functioning of the breath
  • Iyengar Yoga is methodical and systematic both in the introduction of new postures and in the sequencing of postures within the class.
  • Classes include a range of dynamic and strengthening, passive and restorative postures, as well as breathing techniques and relaxation.
  • The use of props (blocks, belts, etc.) aids stiff, injured, or older students to adopt postures, which would otherwise be difficult or impossible, as well as providing additional challenges and options for more advanced students
  • Postures are sometimes held for longer periods to improve awareness and increase stamina.
  • Teachers not only demonstrate but also correct students verbally and at times physically
  • Individual physical problems and injuries are catered for within the class. Everyone does not necessarily always do all the same postures.

These differences offer more benefits. Iyengar Yoga can

  • increase flexibility, agility and coordination;
  • tone, firm and strengthen muscles;
  • improve posture;
  • increase stamina and endurance;
  • balance the functioning of organs and glands;
  • relieve back, neck, and other health problems;
  • enhance performance in sport and other physical activities;
  • improve concentration, focus and mental clarity;
  • reduce stress and learn relaxation;
  • experience a feeling of confidence and wellbeing.