Iyengar Yoga

Overview

Iyengar Yoga was developed by B.K.S. Iyengar (1918-2014), one of the greatest yoga masters of the 20th century. His book "Light on Yoga" (1966) is considered the bible of modern yoga. The method's hallmark is meticulous attention to body alignment and systematic use of props (blocks, straps, blankets, chairs, wall ropes), making yoga accessible to all ages and abilities. Clinical studies validate its effects on chronic low back pain, arthritis, scoliosis, depression, and hypertension.

Core Principles

• Precise alignment: each posture deconstructed into specific bone, muscle, and joint actions
• Props: blocks, straps, blankets, chairs, wall ropes — pedagogical tools, not crutches
• Extended holds: 30 seconds to several minutes per posture for deep tissue work
• Intelligent sequencing: standing, forward bends, backbends, twists, inversions, restoratives
• Proprioceptive awareness: developing fine body listening skills

Main Indications

• Chronic back and lumbar pain
• Arthritis and joint stiffness
• Scoliosis and postural imbalances
• Post-surgical rehabilitation
• Hypertension, depression, insomnia
• Seniors and limited mobility

Session Structure

90-minute class: invocation, standing poses (20-30 min), forward bends, backbends, twists, inversions (headstand and shoulderstand with props), restorative poses and Shavasana.

Variations

Therapeutic Iyengar uses specific sequences for pathologies. Chair yoga for those unable to practice on the floor. Women's Practice for menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause. Iyengar certification requires minimum 6 years of supervised practice and teaching.

Contraindications

• Inversions: menstruation (Iyengar tradition), glaucoma, uncontrolled hypertension
• Deep backbends: acute disc herniation
• Pregnancy: adapted practice with certified teacher
• Acute inflammatory arthritis: adapt with props