Iyengar Yoga

As taught by BKS Iyengar, Iyengar yoga relies of the precision of body placement. Asanas are usually held in position longer during practice. The practice is dependent on the use of props, such as blocks, and/or straps.

Iyengar philosophy is heavily embedded in human kinesiology. Teacher training is an intense two to five year course.

Iyengar yoga is traditional in the sense of hatha principles of asana, pranayama, and astanga, or 'eight-limbs', refering to Patanjali's defined points or paths to greater purpose through yoga. Where the Iyengar style of yoga differs, however, is in within sequencing, technique, and timing.

Sequencing in the Iyengar tradition revolves around 200 classical asana. Emotions and mentality are developed by utilizing these asana, held for varying amounts of time with pranayama. Iyengar uses 14 types of breathing techniques.

Technique is all about precision in Iyengar yoga. Performing each asana is a meditation within itself by being aware of every part of the body, all active within each asana. Props are used for adjusments and alignment is upheld as the deep purpose within each yoga pose.

Timing of Iyengar poses is prolonged, taking the practicer beyond the physical effect, into the boundaries of our molecular individuality of spirituality and mentality.