The Iyengar Method of Yoga
This ancient science and philosophy of life is based on the belief that health, happiness, contentment and peace of mind come from within. Many different types of Yoga practices have emerged over the years to help us open up to these inner qualities. One method developed is the Iyengar method of hatha yoga.
Yoga in the Iyengar tradition emphasizes integration of body, mind and spirit. The student begins with an introduction to the physical postures where the foundation is laid to allow them to work progressively to subsequent and advanced levels. Postures (asana) include standing poses, inversions, forward bends, backbends, and twists, as well as restorative postures providing relaxation and the study of breathing (pranayama). The postures are done energetically, emphasizing precise alignment and focus on the development of strength, flexibility, balance, and stamina. As practice continues, a students ability to concentrate improves, inner awareness is enhanced and the asanas become 'meditation in action'. Body , mind and breath are integrated, peace of mind is enhanced and the major systems of the body move towards balance and harmony. Equipment such as belts, blocks, blankets, bolster, chairs and ropes are used to create awareness in the posture and to meet individual needs.
This system is based on the eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga from the Sutras as interpreted by Yoga Master BKS Iyengar. The 8 limbs include the Yamas (universal ethical disciplines), Niyamas (rules of personal conduct), Asana (practice of yoga postures), Pranayama (practice of yoga breathing techniques), Pratyahara (withdraw of the senses), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (absorption in the infinite). Iyengar explains that all aspects of the 8 fold path can be found within the study of Asana and Pranayama.
"Body is the bow, Asana the arrow, and Soul is the target." -- BKS Iyengar
This ancient science and philosophy of life is based on the belief that health, happiness, contentment and peace of mind come from within. Many different types of Yoga practices have emerged over the years to help us open up to these inner qualities. One method developed is the Iyengar method of hatha yoga.Yoga in the Iyengar tradition emphasizes integration of body, mind and spirit. The student begins with an introduction to the physical postures where the foundation is laid to allow them to work progressively to subsequent and advanced levels. Postures (asana) include standing poses, inversions, forward bends, backbends, and twists, as well as restorative postures providing relaxation and the study of breathing (pranayama). The postures are done energetically, emphasizing precise alignment and focus on the development of strength, flexibility, balance, and stamina. As practice continues, a students ability to concentrate improves, inner awareness is enhanced and the asanas become 'meditation in action'. Body , mind and breath are integrated, peace of mind is enhanced and the major systems of the body move towards balance and harmony. Equipment such as belts, blocks, blankets, bolster, chairs and ropes are used to create awareness in the posture and to meet individual needs.
This system is based on the eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga from the Sutras as interpreted by Yoga Master BKS Iyengar. The 8 limbs include the Yamas (universal ethical disciplines), Niyamas (rules of personal conduct), Asana (practice of yoga postures), Pranayama (practice of yoga breathing techniques), Pratyahara (withdraw of the senses), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (absorption in the infinite). Iyengar explains that all aspects of the 8 fold path can be found within the study of Asana and Pranayama.
"Body is the bow, Asana the arrow, and Soul is the target." -- BKS Iyengar
