Members of the Iyengar Family: Abhijata Iyengar, B.K.S. Iyengar and Geeta Iyengar

About Iyengar Yoga

B.K.S. Iyengar: A Yoga Pioneer's Journey

Born on December 14, 1918, in Bellur, India, B.K.S. Iyengar overcame a challenging childhood marked by poverty and illness. At 15, he embarked on a transformative yoga journey under his brother-in-law, T. Krishnamacharya.

A Lifelong Dedication to Practice and Teaching

In 1937, Mr. Iyengar began teaching in Pune, India, dedicating himself to rigorous study and daily practice. Over decades, he refined his understanding of the body, mind, and breath — developing a precise and accessible method of yoga.
A major turning point came when world-renowned violinist Yehudi Menuhin became his student, helping introduce Iyengar Yoga to the West. By 1956, Mr. Iyengar’s teachings had reached the United States and beyond.

Making Yoga Accessible to All

Mr. Iyengar revolutionized the practice by introducing props such as blocks, belts, and blankets — making yoga accessible to people of all ages and abilities. His detailed approach emphasized alignment, sequencing, and timing, helping students develop strength, mobility, and awareness.
His book Light on Yoga (1966) became an international bestseller and remains a foundational reference for practitioners worldwide.

A legacy that continues

In 1975, Mr. Iyengar established the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute (RIMYI) in Pune, named in honor of his wife. Today, the institute continues to serve as the heart of Iyengar Yoga, guided by members of the Iyengar family — including Prashant and Abhijata Iyengar.
Mr. Iyengar continued practicing and teaching well into his 90s, leaving behind a global community and an enduring lineage of teachers and students.
Recognized by TIME magazine in 2004 as one of the most influential people in the world, his teachings continue to inspire practitioners seeking clarity, steadiness, and self-understanding — both on and off the mat.

Why Iyengar Yoga?

Iyengar Yoga is accessible to everyone. It’s known for its precision, timing, and the intelligent use of props — tools personally designed by B.K.S. Iyengar to make yoga approachable for all ages and body types.

This method helps students build strength, stability, and awareness while bringing balance to the body, mind, and emotions. Each class encourages mindful progression rather than performance — helping students move with understanding and confidence.

What also sets Iyengar Yoga apart is its standardized teacher certification system recognized worldwide. Certified Iyengar Yoga Teachers (CIYTs) complete years of in-depth training and assessment. Their expertise ensures clear instruction, thoughtful sequencing, and safe use of props to support each student’s needs.

Visit this page for a digital exhibit by the Google Cultural Institute on Guruji.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Iyengar Yoga

  • Iyengar Yoga is a method of yoga that emphasizes alignment, precision, and the use of props. Developed by B.K.S. Iyengar, it helps students build strength, stability, and awareness in each pose.

  • Unlike faster-paced styles, Iyengar Yoga slows things down so you can focus on the details of each posture. Instructors offer clear guidance and personalized corrections to support safe progress.

  • B.K.S. Iyengar developed this approach based on his own deep study of yoga. His teachings are rooted in classical yoga and have influenced practitioners and teachers around the world.

  • It's especially beneficial for building strength, improving posture, increasing flexibility, and developing focus. Many students also find relief from back, neck, and joint issues through consistent practice.

  • This method works well for people of all ages and abilities—especially those who appreciate a thoughtful, structured approach to learning. Whether you're new to yoga or a longtime practitioner, there’s always more to explore.

  • We recommend starting with our Foundations class. From there, you can move into Level 1 and beyond as you gain experience. Small class sizes and expert guidance help you progress safely.

  • Because it teaches you how to move with awareness and understand your body’s patterns. The use of props and precise instruction allows students to access poses they might not otherwise be able to do safely.

  • It’s pronounced “Eye-en-gar”

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