Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar Yoga is generally characterized by attention to detail and precise focus on the alignment of the body. Props such as cushions, benches, blocks and straps are incorporated as aids allowing beginners to experience asanas more easily and fully than might otherwise be possible. Props can also allow students to enjoy the benefits of many asanas via fully "supported" methods so that the patients' ailing and stiff bodies could be supported in asanas without strain or the risk of further damage.

Iyengar Yoga is a form of Hatha Yoga, although it focuses on the structural alignment of the physical body through the development of postures known as asanas. Through the practice of a system of asanas, Iyengar Yoga aims to unite the body, mind and spirit for health and well being.

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Teaching is oriented towards incremental but steady progress, rather than rapid but fleeting results. Emphasis is given to different groups of asanas throughout the month - one week at a time. For example, in Week One the focus may be on standing poses, Week Two, forward bends, Week Three backbends and in Week Four the students will practice passive chest openings and restorative poses leading the practitioner, when becoming more experienced, to pranayama (breathing). This sequential learning of asanas can result in the student having a solid all-round base on which to build. Each class will have a freshness as the teacher will sequence, time and link the asanas in different ways. followed by 30 minutes of floor exercises. The routine includes Bikram Yoga positions such as the Half Moon Pose that strengthens your abdominals and helps with back pain. The Awkward pose that strengthens calves, thighs, and hips.

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