Iyengar Yoga

While yoga is often perceived in the West as merely a physical practice, Iyengar Yoga is much more than exercise. This unique method, developed by the master B.K.S. Iyengar, integrates physical, mental, and spiritual practice, aiming to create harmony between the body, mind, and spirit.

Through intellectual and spiritual exploration, Yogacharya B.K.S. Iyengar developed techniques that are accessible to all yoga practitioners. His method, built on the principles of “research-based experience” and “experience-based research,” is now known as Iyengar Yoga. These techniques have made the wisdom of the Yoga Sutras accessible to everyone.

Iyengar Yoga emphasizes precision and proper alignment in every pose, often using props like belts, ropes, and wooden tools to adapt the practice to each individual. This focus helps improve posture, reduce stress and tension, and strengthen the entire body. Suitable for everyone, regardless of fitness level or flexibility, Iyengar Yoga allows practitioners to experience a profound sense of stability and inner balance.

The method enables practitioners to connect deeply with the wisdom of the Yoga Sutras in a way that is both accessible and personalized. It impacts not only the physical dimension—affecting anatomical, physiological, and organic systems—but also helps navigate modern challenges such as stress, anxiety, and sleep issues, promoting inner balance and stability that extends beyond the yoga mat.

A regular Iyengar Yoga practice can transform your life. It grounds you, releases physical tension, and calms your thoughts, allowing you to focus. By giving yourself the gift of yoga, you’re not just improving your health but opening the door to profound, meaningful change in every aspect of your life.

The Iyengar method is rooted in the principles outlined by the sage Patanjali in his work Yoga sutras, where he defined yoga as "the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind" (CITTA VRITTI NIRODHA). The mind, intellect, and ego form the components of consciousness, and through yoga, they harmonize, bringing inner peace. Patanjali outlined 196 sutras, presenting yoga through the Eight Limbs (Ashtanga):

Yama
Universal moral principles

Niyama
Self-purification through discipline

Asana
Postures that train the entire body

Pranayama
Breath control and extension

Pratyahara
Withdrawal of the senses inward

Dharana
Focused concentration

Dhyana
Meditation

Samadhi
Complete absorption and supreme joy

What is Yoga? Three Essential Definitions

The word “yoga” derives from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning “to join,” “to harness,” or “to unite,” from which the term “yoga” was born.

There are two popular interpretations of yoga. Some see it as the union of the individual soul with the universal soul, disconnected entirely from the material world. Others reduce it to the physical aspect of Hatha Yoga. However, neither of these fully captures the essence of yoga.

Three definitions from traditional Indian texts reflect the core, purpose, and philosophy of yoga:

From Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras: “Yoga CITTA VRITTI NIRODHA,” meaning “the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind.” Simply put, yoga is the ability to control our thought processes. Recognizing that the mind is central to our actions and behavior, yoga aims to achieve peace and focus within the mind.

From the Bhagavad Gita: “Yoga Karmasu Kaushalam,” or “Yoga is skill in action.” Krishna describes yoga as the excellence and mindfulness required in performing one’s duties. Often, our emotional state—whether insecurity, overconfidence, or confusion—hinders us from fulfilling our responsibilities. Yoga, according to Krishna, is about setting emotions aside to carry out tasks with focus and skill.

Also from the Bhagavad Gita: “Samatvam Yoga Uchyate,” or “Yoga is equanimity.” This definition emphasizes performing duties without attachment to their outcomes, whether success or failure. Thinking too much about results can disrupt consistency and turn obligations into burdens. By rising above the duality of success and failure, one can live a stable and balanced life.

B.K.S. Iyengar

Yogacharya B.K.S. Iyengar (Guruji) is the man who introduced yoga to the West in a profound and transformative way. Through constant practice and exploration, he uncovered the deep meaning of the Yoga Sutras and made this wisdom accessible to his students. His unique teaching style, known as "Iyengar Yoga," is now taught by certified instructors around the globe.

Geeta Iyengar

Smt. Geeta S. Iyengar, the eldest daughter of Yogacharya B.K.S. Iyengar, was a leading figure in the field of yoga. She began learning yoga at a very young age by observing her father’s practice. Geeta also held a degree in philosophy. For many years, she served as the director of RIMYI, the mother institute of Iyengar Yoga in Pune, India.

Prashant Iyengar

Sri Prashant S. Iyengar, the son of Yogacharya B.K.S. Iyengar, is a leading authority in the field of yoga. He currently serves as the director of RIMYI and is known for his profound knowledge of sacred scriptures and ancient texts, making his yoga teachings a fascinating experience. Prashant is also an accomplished violinist.

Abhijata Iyengar

Abhijata Sridhar Iyengar, the granddaughter of B.K.S. Iyengar, began her serious yoga studies at the age of 16 under the direct guidance of her grandfather, her aunt Dr. Geeta S. Iyengar, and her uncle Sri Prashant Iyengar.

Fáèq Biria

Fáèq Biria played a pivotal role in spreading Guruji’s teachings worldwide. Guruji entrusted him with the responsibility of teaching and training instructors in numerous countries, from Japan to Brazil, the United States to Singapore, and Israel to China. He left a profound impression in every place he visited.