What is Iyengar Yoga?

The Iyengar yoga system of teaching is methodical and progressive, emphasising detailed correctness and safety.

When necessary, props such as bricks, blankets, belts and bolsters are used. These allow students to progress in their practice of postures safely at their own pace, to suit their body. Beginners work in a basic way on simple postures according to their capabilities. As they develop they then move on to more refined ways of working as well as to more complex postures.

Who can do Iyengar Yoga?

Iyengar yoga is suitable for all types of people, abilities and levels of fitness

You’ll learn through a carefully graded and systematic programme of Asana (posture), suited to your ability.
Teachers gradually introduce Pranayama (breath control) once students have a firm foundation of Asana practice.
Practice helps you to relax and energizes the body and mind, bringing vitality, flexibility, strength, concentration, self-confidence and mental calm.
Iyengar yoga can help you overcome and prevent many stresses, strains, aches and pains. It promotes a firm foundation for health and well-being.

Iyengar Yoga Student in Halasana using shoulder support — Iyengar Yoga student using prop support for Halasana or plough pose.

What are the effects of Iyengar yoga practice?

With regular guided practice, effects can include a general feeling of physical health and psychological and mental well-being. This is not to say that ill-health will not arise; it may. If it does it is likely that yoga will help one to face it and may manage it. The focus of Iyengar yoga on postural alignment can alleviate postural/structural problems. It can also release emotional tensions. The yoga is demanding in effort and in attention to detail within the posture, which increases concentration and focus helping to relieve the mind and body of stress. It can help to develop a deeper knowledge of your Self, which can contribute to greater self-confidence.

‘In whatever position (or condition), one has to find balance’

~ BKS Iyengar

For more information on Iyengar Yoga, you may be interested to visit the Iyengar Yoga UK frequently asked questions page.

Here at East of Scotland Iyengar Yoga we would delighted to welcome you to a local class.

You can find the nearest class or teacher to you, using the class and teacher search on the Iyengar Yoga UK website or alternatively email us here at East of Scotland Iyengar Yoga and we can put you in touch.