ABOUT IYENGAR YOGA

Yoga is a practical philosophy that integrates, develops and balances all aspects of an individual. The regular practice of yoga encourages self discipline and spiritual awareness. It results in better health, vitality and creates a sense of wellbeing. It relieves stress and is beneficial to many common complaints such as backache, arthritis, sports injuries, high blood pressure and asthma. Anyone, irrespective of their age, health or religion, can practise yoga.

B.K.S. Iyengar (born in 1918) is considered by many to be the world's foremost teacher and exponent of yoga. He has devoted his lifetime to its study and dissemination and is often credited with popularising the subject in the west. He lives with his family in Pune, India, where the first Iyengar Yoga Institute was set up in 1975. He is author of many books including the classic text ‘Light on Yoga’.

The Iyengar system helps individuals to develop according to their own abilities, and is a methodical, progressive and inclusive approach, which emphasises precise alignment and safe practice. To enable students of all abilities to progress Mr Iyengar developed the use of props such as blocks, bricks, blankets and belts to help support the body in the different postures.

The Iyengar certification mark is an international symbol of the teaching
certification, graded from Introductory to Advanced. The Iyengar Yoga Association (UK) is responsible for awarding teaching certificates and ensuring  that standards are maintained. The Iyengar method is recognised by local education authorities in the UK.