The Iyengar yoga system is a methodical and detailed approach to all aspects of yoga, with an intense focus on form and safety. It is progressive and provides an in-depth way of understanding the postures by emphasising correctness in alignment and the effect on the body. It was developed over 75 years by BKS Iyengar.

What distinguishes Iyengar yoga is the very high degree of focus paid to alignment. Props are used to increase awareness, and teach applications and techniques to make the poses accessible to all. In an Iyengar session, you can expect longer holds, less flow but sequential, deliberate movements that bring you into a place of deep focus, the “meditation in action”. The body will move isometrically, isotonically, as well as dynamically, through shapes that ultimately strengthen through the balanced extension and muscle contraction dance. The diversity of practice is another distinguishing element. In an Iyengar class a new sequence is created each week and we do not practice just one sequence daily. Even though we do repeat some of the same poses, there is a lot of creativity in the sequencing. The variety helps prevent injury and overuse but also keeps your brain muscle engaged. Although most systems would agree that inversion practices are extremely beneficial to the human body systems and the mind, they are not always taught in other styles of yoga. However, the headstand and shoulder stand are some of the most important and fundamental poses in our practice. They are taught from preparatory to full expression within the first few weeks in an Iyengar practice, with alternatives, modifications, and props to suit all levels and bodies. The Iyengar approach by virtue of alignment principles can be therapeutic in nature. Often many common ailments are mitigated or corrected with fundamental alignment techniques allowing this practice to offer more than just a movement routine but one that offers healing and a healthful modality. Iyengar teachers have a level of commitment to excellence, their standards, and how they obtain their certification are rigorous and require dedication. National assessments, professional development, and a commitment to a personal practice are all requirements to continue certification levels and participation within the Iyengar associations. Iyengar yoga became an Institution in 1975 and a global community with governing bodies in each country maintaining the excellency of teaching standards that are determined and directed from the Iyengar family traditions and Institute of Iyengar yoga in Pune, India.

The Iyengar method develops strength, endurance, and optimal body alignment, in addition to flexibility and relaxation. The practice itself naturally develops self-awareness, intelligent evaluation, and profound inward reflection. It can be physically challenging and emotionally healing. Standing poses are emphasized at the beginning to build strength and ease of movement, increase general vitality, and improve circulation, coordination, and balance. Postures for deep relaxation are also introduced from the beginning. Gradually, sitting and reclining postures, forward bends, inversions, backbends, twists, arm balances, and flowing sequences are introduced.

Iyengar yoga is for anyone irrespective of age, gender, health, religion and circumstances in life. Yoga is not competitive but builds self awareness and confidence that ultimately may ignite your spark to strive more. You will experience strength and flexibility in new and deeper expressions. You will find more length to your stretch and more control in your extensions. Yoga is often a best compliment for athletes of all levels.

There are no prerequisites to practicing Iyengar yoga. The fundamentals are the same in all of the poses. Once you have a rudimentary understanding of posture and alignment, the more difficult poses will come over time of conditioning the body. It is accessible, challenging, strengthening, cardiovascular centric and invigorating, in ways you may have never experienced before. Come prepared to be elevated.

First, check with your physician and make sure it is safe to practice yoga with a skilled teacher. Discuss your issues with your teacher, as Iyengar teachers are trained to safely and supportively teach to ailments, conditions, and the different phases of life. Modifications and an alternate version of the asana is always an option.

It is in my best practice to never “should” anyone. Yoga is a discipline that will touch you deeply. Once your fire is ignited, you will find your mat intuitively. If you can dedicate 1 practice a week consistently, you will notice a viable difference in your overall well being within a few weeks.

Not at all! I have students that have started in their 60’s and maintain a practice in their 70’s and 80’s! I also have practitioners in their 30’s and 40’s working through injuries and generally maintaining their strength, flexibility and mobility. And I work with those in mid life experiencing hormonal changes and the effects on our bodies. Yoga is timeless.