Iyengar Yoga follows the tradition of B.K.S. Iyengar, a yoga master whose impactful life extended from 1918 to 2014. Through dedicated practice he gleaned ways of bringing the inner connections yoga affords through attention and awareness, which he called meditation in action.

The Iyengar tradition of practicing asanas and pranayama opens the mind and body of those who practice it to offer a more layered experience, from the physical experience to the deeper layers of mind and spirit.

This method helps students to find a firm foundation in each yoga pose (called asanas) and, according to their own capacity, bring each part of the body into clear connection using the principles of alignment. Each yoga pose has a shape and integrity and gives certain benefits. Clear precise instruction helps students craft each pose and stay mindfully connected in the process. Progress is gradual and steady.

Each Iyengar Yoga class is taught in a particular sequence of poses to bring out certain qualities, such as vitality or deep relaxation, so that students get a wide range of possibilities and understand how the physical practice of yoga can help them access inner potentials.

If a student finds they are not flexible enough to achieve the final shape of the asana, the asana is either modified or paused at stable stage, or a "prop" such as a block of wood or belt is used to bring stability and make the asana most beneficial.

This safe, progressive approach is excellent for beginners and experienced students, and brings increasing benefits over time. These include better balance, increased strength, flexibility and coordination, the ability to concentrate and also to relax and let go of the effects of stress. Meditation in Action, leads to a mindful approach to life.

You do not have to be flexible or know anything about yoga to begin yoga.

Poses are demonstrated each time with enough information to get you started.

Start where you are, believe in yourself, the rest will flow from there.

Download the Iyengar Yoga flyer.

2014
Google Doodle featured B.K.S. Iyengar on his birthday.
View here.

Mary Reilly with B.K.S. Iyengar

Mary and Geetaji Iyengar