Iyengar Yoga is named after B.K.S. Iyengar, the direct student of T. Krishnamacharya, who developed it. Together with Pattabhi Jois (who developed Ashtanga Yoga), he is partly responsible for introducing the modern yoga practice as we know it today to the West.
What Makes Iyengar Yoga Unique?
Iyengar yoga focuses on three aspects: Alignment, sequencing, and synchronization.
- Alignment is about maintaining the intended posture while respecting the limits of the body. Iyengar yoga encourages the use of tools to support students in an asana without putting them at risk of injury.
- The sequence refers to the order in which the postures are practiced. This allows for a safe, structured sequence of postures as well as opening and balancing the physical and emotional body.
- Timing: In contrast to vinyasa yoga, Iyengar yoga postures are held for longer. Once the stability of a posture is achieved, the depth of the posture can be safely intensified.
In the 1960s, when American and European students began attending yoga classes, Iyengar’s method came to the fore. His main school, the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute (RIMYI), named after his wife, was founded in 1975 in Pune, India.
Alignment and Accessories to Practice Iyengar Yoga:
The Iyengar method, a form of hatha yoga, is based on the priority given to the physical alignment of the body in the postures. In this style, it is taught that there is a correct way to perform each pose and that each student will one day be able to achieve perfect poses through regular practice.
One of Iyengar’s most important innovations was the use of aids. Today you often see blankets, blocks, straps, cushions, chairs and yoga bolsters in yoga studios.
How are Props Used in the Iyengar Yoga?
Let’s take the example of the triangle pose. In this pose, your hand should ideally touch the floor next to your front foot. But what if you find it difficult or impossible to bring your hand to the floor without interfering with the opening of the chest, which is one of the main goals of the pose?
This is one of the ways in which the Iyengar method makes yoga more accessible to a wide range of people. The tools adapt the body to the correct alignment and can be used according to the student’s needs.
What are the Benefits of Iyengar Yoga?
Mr. Iyengar began practicing yoga because he was in poor health as a child. Through daily practice, his health and strength improved and he felt great benefits in his own body. This enabled him to develop a comprehensive knowledge of anatomy and a therapeutic approach to the practice.
- Improved physical and mental health
- Increase attention and concentration
- Increase your energy
- Alleviate postural and structural problems
- Reduce emotional tension
- get back in touch with your body and breathing
Is Iyengar Yoga Suitable for You?
In a word – for everyone! It is suitable for both beginners and advanced practitioners. Because Iyengar yoga pays attention to alignment and uses props to help students find their way into poses, it’s ideal for beginners to achieve optimal alignment and can be very helpful for people with postural issues.
Conclusion for Iyengar Yoga:
Iyengar yoga is a popular, well-established form of yoga that emphasizes alignment. This style has had a huge influence on today’s yoga practice. Whether you are new to yoga or an advanced practitioner, you can try an Iyengar yoga class to see if it appeals to you.