What is Yoga?

Yoga is an ancient Indian philosophy that has been practised for thousands of years. It is one of the oldest systems of personal development in the world.  It is a complete system for balancing the body, mind and spirit.

The system was formulated by ancient yogis, who understood essential human nature and realised a way to help a person live in harmony with him/herself and the environment.  It was first systematized by the sage, Patanjali, over two thousand years ago.

It is still a philosophy which is of great value for people in our modern world

The Iyengar Method

The world`s most widely practised method of yoga is that taught by BKS Iyengar of Pune, India. He has studied and practised continuously for over 70 years and his thorough study, understanding and mastery of yoga is unrivalled in modern times.

Having taught in all five continents, he has won worldwide respect and recognition for his achievements and he has made yoga accessible and relevant to people everywhere, no matter what their physical or mental ability.

In an Iyengar class you will be led through structured sequences of postures including standing postures, sitting postures, twists, forward bends, backbends, inverted postures and restorative postures.

The teaching of Iyengar Yoga is progressive and safe.  You learn to stretch and to increase your stamina in basic postures before you progress to the complicated poses.

Pranayama (breath control) is gradually introduced.

The focus is very much on correct alignment of the body.  By working with care and attention to alignment, the body gets the maximum benefit from the postures.

Practising yoga helps overcome stresses and strains. It brings vitality, flexibility, strength, concentration, self-confidence and mental calm and promotes a firm foundation for health and well being.

The Iyengar method is not simply a sophisticated form of physical exercise and deep breathing. It is a spiritual practice aimed at integrating mind, body and inner self.

" Words cannot convey the value of yoga - it has to be experienced "

quotation by BKS Iyengar