Iyengar Yoga

The Iyengar yoga approach

Iyengar Yoga is the approach to hatha yoga developed by B.K.S. Iyengar in Pune, India. He has elaborated the techniques of the postures (asanas) and breathing (pranayama). He also developed the use of props in the practice of postures such as belts, blocks, chairs, blankets and bolsters. They deepen your awareness of the poses and support you for the correct posture.

The alignment of the body in Iyengar’s concept is essential. From the center, the perfect balance, the body is extended. If there is an overstretching somewhere in the body, this automatically implies that there is an understretching and too little awareness in a different place. This is what Iyengar calls the art of precision, the perfect balance. This ever-deeper sophistication develops the sensitivity and intelligence of the body. The poses are taught and practiced in a certain and safe sequence. In this form of hatha yoga you create more space in your body by extending more than you think you can. You will be guided therein by careful instructions on how to do the posture correctly and effectively.

Through the practice of yoga your body will function better. The fluctuations in your mind will unwind. In your moods and thoughts you will notice changes. You can concentrate better, you will feel more energetic, more alert, brighter and more relaxed. You develop strength and flexibility in your body. The more you practice, the more you reap the benefits of it.

SADHAKA: the yoga van B.K.S. Iyengar A documentary about B.K.S. Iyengar’s practice, life and influence by Jake Clennell. The film is currently in the final stages of production. See the twenty-two-minute trailer here.