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How
does Iyengar yoga differ from other styles of yoga?
The Iyengar method places special focus on developing strength, endurance
and correct body alignment in addition to flexibility and relaxation.
Standing poses are emphasized in this system of yoga. They build strong
legs, increase general vitality and improve circulation, coordination
and balance.
Iyengar yoga is meditation in action. As students do yoga postures the
mind is focused on the actions of the posture and the movement of the
breath. As the mind unites with the body and the breath, students move
into a meditative state. Self-exploration occurs through discovery and
release of physical tension patterns and psychological resistance. As
practice continues, a student's ability to concentrate and to relax improves
and inner awareness is enhanced.
Iyengar yoga teachers emphasize improving precision of alignment in the
yoga poses.
Why is this important?
People tend to stretch from their more flexible areas and rely on their
better-developed muscles for strength, thus reinforcing misalignment.
Iyengar yoga encourages weak parts to strengthen and stiff areas to stretch,
thus awakening and re-aligning the whole body. As the body moves into
better alignment, less muscular work is required and relaxation increases
naturally.
How should I begin practicing Iyengar yoga?
People who have not done yoga before should come to a beginning level
class. Students who have done other types of yoga, but who have never
experienced Iyengar yoga, are also encouraged to take beginning classes
for enough time to absorb the basic principles and vocabulary of Iyengar
yoga and apply them to the fundamental postures.
What can I expect in an Iyengar yoga class?
You will be introduced to the basic asanas (poses or postures) which will
include standing poses, sitting poses and recuperative poses. All the
asanas have Sanskrit names which the teacher will use -- don't worry,
you are not expected to pick it all up straight away! The teacher
will show you how to use yoga props such as belts and blocks to help you
achieve the postures to the best of your ability.
All the asanas have different effects on the body. The basic postures
that beginners are taught will build up strength and stamina, and improve
muscular tone, flexibility and alignment. Practicing the postures reduces
tiredness and soothes the nerves. It also trains and disciplines the mind
so concentration is improved. Yoga is therefore a great help if you suffer
from stress!
Yoga should always be practiced in an empty stomach, so leave 3-4 hours
after a main meal or 2 hours after a light snack. Wear clothes that do
not restrict your movement in any way. Most people wear shorts or leggings
and a T-shirt. Yoga is always practiced in bare feet.
If you are menstruating, there are certain poses that are not suitable
to please consult the teacher before the class begins. The teacher may
give you some alternative postures to perform during the class.
Can I come to a yoga class if I have health concerns
or limitations?
Yoga teaches you about yourself. In learning about yourself, you learn
to deal with difficulties. Advise your teacher of your concerns before
class. Iyengar teachers are trained to modify, eliminate, and suggest
alternate strategies (or poses) to enable you to practice safely and intelligently.
Yoga is open to all people of all ages and levels of physical condition.
Do not be put off from trying a yoga class because you feel that you are
too old, too stiff, too fat, too thin, too tired, etc. Yoga is a process-oriented
activity with something to offer everyone.
*Special
Thanks and acknowlegment to The Iyengar
Yoga Association of Greater New York for Frequently Asked Questions.
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