Iyengar yoga is one of the most recognised and widely practised forms of yoga, known for its precision, focus on body alignment and adaptability to the needs of each individual. It is a practice that combines the tradition of ancient hatha yoga with the innovation and practicality of modern times. Named after its founder, the legendary Indian yoga teacher B.K.S. Iyengar, this method focuses on detail, discipline and gradual progression.
Iyengar yoga is unique because of its flexibility and responsiveness to the needs of the individual. It is not a "one size fits all" method, but offers adaptations that allow everyone to practice, regardless of age, physical condition or experience.
B.K.S. Iyengar once said: "Words cannot describe the value of yoga - yoga must be experienced."
The Many Facets of Iyengar Yoga
For some, Iyengar yoga is slow and methodical, designed to relieve joint and back pain. For others, it is strong and dynamic, perfect for building strength. Others associate it with yoga props, precision in performing asanas, or its meditative aspect that unites the mind and body.
The History of Iyengar yoga and the Iyengar family
Iyengar yoga is deeply rooted in the life and work of B.K.S. Iyengar (1918-2014), who took up yoga because of his own health problems. Under the mentorship of a strict yoga teacher, Krishnamacharya, Iyengar started practicing yoga and through discipline over the years developed a system that is accessible to people with different physical abilities. He has written several books on asana practice, yogic philosophy and breathing techniques that have become worldwide bestsellers. In the last 75 years of his life, he devoted three hours every morning to his own practice, emphasising the importance of choosing the correct sequence of postures. In 1975 he also opened the Ramamani Iyengar Yoga Memorial Institute (RIMYI), where he taught until his death, despite officially retiring in 1984.
The Iyengar Family: Preserving the legacy
Iyengar and his wife, Ramamani, had six children: five daughters and a son. The Iyengar family has played a crucial role in continuing B.K.S. Iyengar’s legacy and expanding the method worldwide.
- Dr. Geeta S. Iyengar (1944–2018): The eldest daughter, who began practicing yoga as a child, became a world-renowned teacher and authored Yoga: A Gem for Women, which explored the role of yoga during different phases of a woman’s life.
- Sri Prashant Iyengar: Iyengar’s son, an expert in yoga philosophy and ancient texts, teaches at RIMYI and is known for his audio recordings on the yoga sutras.
- Abhijata Iyengar: B.K.S. Iyengar’s granddaughter, who began seriously studying yoga at the age of 16 under the mentorship of her grandfather, aunt Geeta, and uncle Prashant. Today, she is one of the leading Iyengar Yoga teachers.
- Sunita Iyengar: Like her sister Geeta, Sunita practiced yoga under her father’s guidance, focusing on creating sequences that deepen the yoga experience.
RIMYI and Teacher Certification
The Iyengar family runs the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute (RIMYI) in India, a world centre for Iyengar yoga. Through a rigorous training system, they ensure a high standard of knowledge among professional Iyengar yoga teachers. Currently, there are thousands of certified teachers worldwide.
Key features of Iyengar yoga
Precise implementation of the technique
Iyengar yoga is known for its focus on the correct alignment of the body in every pose. Through detailed instructions and adjustments, teachers ensure that each practitioner achieves maximum stability and comfort in the asana.
The precision of the teaching is not just physical. It is also a tool for deep concentration, which is what Iyengar yoga is often called "meditation in action". This helps to unite mind and body and creates space for deep reflection.
Use of Yoga Props
The use of yoga props such as blocks, straps, blankets, and chairs is a central part of Iyengar yoga. The aids enable asanas to be performed correctly even for those with physical limitations.
Quotes from B.K.S. Iyengar such as "The wall is my guru," reflect the importance of creative use of yoga props. Even if a particular asana can be performed without props, they are often used to deepen the understanding of certain actions in the body.
Sequencing
Every Iyengar yoga class is strategically structured. Classes are often divided into four-week cycles, with each week emphasizing a specific family of poses:
- Standing poses for strength and stability.
- Forward bends for introspection and relaxation.
- Backbends for energy and vitality.
- Restorative poses and pranayama for rejuvenation.
This system provides a balanced approach to practice, emphasising both the physical and emotional effects of certain asanas. The choice of the sequence of postures itself is partly up to the practitioner, as there is no one-size-fits-all sequence for every state of mind, every energy level or level of experience. Women in particular need to take into account their natural menstrual cycle, as yoga during menstruation requires adjustments to maintain physical and mental health.
Timing
Iyengar yoga also differs in that we hold certain postures for longer than usual. The aim is to achieve longer stability in the poses. By mastering the postures and staying in them for longer, the effect of the asana increases.
For instance:
- Faster sequences can boost energy levels.
- Holding poses for longer periods fosters focus and introspection.
Iyengar believed that each pose has a "gestation period," during which practitioners can discover deeper insights and understanding.
Benefits of Iyengar yoga
Iyengar Yoga offers a comprehensive range of benefits:
Physical Benefits
- Improved posture and flexibility.
- Assistance in rehabilitation from injuries.
- Relief from chronic pain.
Mental Benefits
- Reduction of stress and anxiety.
- Enhanced concentration and focus.
Emotional Benefits
- A sense of calm and balance.
- Increased self-confidence and self-awareness.
Iyengar Yoga as a Lifestyle
Iyengar yoga is not only a practice, but also a philosophy of life. It teaches us how to make more conscious choices and cultivate balance in our daily lives through discipline and focus.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, Iyengar yoga offers you the tools for physical, mental and emotional development.
Why choose Iyengar yoga?
Iyengar yoga is more than just a series of physical poses - it is a method that respects the uniqueness of each individual. The emphasis on precision, the use of yoga props and strategic sequences makes the practice accessible to all.
If you are looking for a practice that combines tradition, innovation and flexibility, Iyengar Yoga may be the right choice for you. As B.K.S. Iyengar said: "Yoga is a journey into oneself. Once you start on this path, you will never come back the same."