Iyengar Yoga is more than just a method of practicing poses—it is a discipline, an art, and a lifelong journey of self-discovery. Rooted in ancient yogic tradition and refined through the meticulous approach of B.K.S. Iyengar, this practice has transformed the way we understand alignment, breath, and mindful movement. But where did it all begin? And what makes Iyengar Yoga distinct from other styles?
A Legacy of Dedication: The Story of B.K.S. Iyengar
B.K.S. Iyengar’s journey into yoga was one of perseverance and passion. Born in 1918 in Bellur, India, he struggled with poor health as a child. At the age of 16, he was introduced to yoga by his brother-in-law and teacher, Krishnamacharya. Through years of dedicated practice, he not only regained his health but developed a unique understanding of asana (posture), pranayama (breath control), and the intricate connections between body and mind.
In the years that followed, Iyengar refined his approach, emphasizing alignment, the use of props, and precise techniques that made yoga accessible to all, regardless of age, ability, or physical condition. His book, Light on Yoga, published in 1966, became a seminal text for practitioners worldwide, cementing his influence on modern yoga.
The Iyengar Approach: Precision, Awareness, and Transformation
Unlike flow-based styles, Iyengar Yoga is known for its:
Emphasis on Alignment: Every movement is intentional, ensuring the body is positioned in a way that promotes stability, balance, and energy flow.
Use of Props: Blocks, belts, bolsters, and chairs make postures accessible, helping students find depth without strain.
Intelligent Sequencing: Poses are carefully arranged to prepare the body for more advanced movements and to create a balanced practice.
Longer Holds: Instead of rushing through sequences, students hold poses to fully experience their effects, building strength, endurance, and concentration.
Beyond the Physical: The Philosophy of Iyengar Yoga
While Iyengar Yoga is deeply rooted in asana practice, it extends far beyond the physical. B.K.S. Iyengar was a devoted student of The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, an ancient text that outlines the eight limbs of yoga. These principles guide not only the practice on the mat but also the way one lives life.
Key philosophical foundations include:
Yamas & Niyamas: Ethical guidelines that cultivate discipline, truthfulness, contentment, and self-awareness.
Pranayama: Breathwork that refines focus and connects the practitioner to deeper states of consciousness.
Dharana & Dhyana: Concentration and meditation that lead to inner stillness.
Kaivalya (Liberation): The ultimate goal of yoga—a state of freedom from mental fluctuations and attachment.
Why Iyengar Yoga Still Thrives Today
Decades after its introduction to the West, Iyengar Yoga continues to attract students from all walks of life. Its precise approach makes it adaptable, therapeutic, and profoundly transformative. Whether someone is recovering from an injury, looking to refine their alignment, or seeking a deeper connection between body and mind, Iyengar Yoga provides a pathway.
It is a practice for those who want to move with intention, breathe with awareness, and cultivate mindfulness in every posture—and in every moment of life.
Are you ready to experience the wisdom of this tradition? Join us on the mat in Providence, RI or online and discover the transformative power of Iyengar Yoga.