IYENGAR YOGA
IYENGAR® Yoga is a method developed by Yogacharya B.K.S. Iyengar (1918- 2014) and his family, based on the Philosophy of The Yoga Sutras of Patañjali, an ancient text detailing the aim of the yogic path to quiet the mind so it can be filled with lucid awareness. It uses Hatha Yoga classic postures.
Since Yoga’s ultimate goal is the control the fluctuations of the mind, the IYENGAR method emphasizes the implication of mind and intelligence in the practice of Yoga: in asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises) and pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses). Develops an attitude of constant and simultaneous observation of all movements and technical details that make up a posture or an breathing exercise. At the same time, it insists on maintaining the complete passivity of the brain and its organs of expression.
The intensity of this mental penetration in each asana and pranayama is the main feature of Yoga IYENGAR® and the guarantee that it is a path of inner transformation. Hence the misconception that IYENGAR® Yoga is a physical yoga.
In fact this method insists on the means to achieve strength, flexibility and endurance of the body as a vehicle that leads to spiritual elevation.
Iyengar Yoga is currently practiced in over 46 countries.
ABOUT B.K.S.IYENGAR
B.K.S. Iyengar (Bellur Krishnamachar Sundararaja Iyengar) was born in the south of India in December of 1918 and dedicated his whole life to the path of Yoga.
He is one of the most respected and influential Yoga teachers of all time, author of the book “Light on Yoga”, among many other texts on the philosophy and practice of Yoga.
In his childhood, B.K.S. Iyengar was a victim of malaria, tuberculosis and typhoid. He was introduced to Yoga at age 16 by his Guru Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, and as soon as he began to practice he saw his health drastically improve.
At age 18 he was sent to Pune, Maharashtra, to teach Yoga because he had some knowledge of English.
He practiced daily for 75 years, developing a method of practice and teaching that was accessible to all and characterized by the use of different types of props.
This method has helped thousands of people around the world, particularly people with serious illnesses, to improve their health and well-being.
Its Institute – RYMI – is located in Pune – India. There, his vision is shared with the younger generations through his grandaughter, Abhijata Iyengar, along with a team of teachers whom Guruji himself formed and inspired.