Iyengar Yoga, named after and developed by B.K.S Iyengar and described in his bestselling 1966 book Light on Yoga is a form of Hatha Yoga that has an emphasis on detail, precision and alignment in the performance of posture (asana) and breath control (pranayama). Strength, mobility and stability of body and mind are gained through regular and consistent practice of the asanas.
Only certified teachers teach genuine Iyengar yoga. To use this logo, they have to be properly trained and maintain their development.
Integrated mental and physical practice Iyengar yoga has been described as meditation in action. Practising the yoga postures with awareness has an integrating effect and works to harmonise mind and body.
BKS Iyengar, was always clear about the stages of progression of practice and how poses link to each other. Each syllabus that each Iyengar Teacher trains to teach and has to pass an assessment before teaching; has a clear list of poses for each level of student. The assessment system and training is rigorous, the syllabus is consistently checked and updated by the Iyengar family in Pune at the family home and Iyengar Institute, RIMYI.
In Beginners classes The focus is on the standing poses, they help increase stability, strength and stamina. They give a foundation to the action for alignment. You are introduced to the poses on the and you learn how to do shoulder stand (Sarvangasana) gradually. The classes and syllabus is designed to build up your strength and ability. You learn the basics, the sitting poses, forward bends, twists and simple backbends. The props are introduced to support your practice and your body.
At General or Mixed Ability level the poses will be mainly taken from the Introductory syllabus and poses from the Intermediate syllabuses are introduced if your teacher is certified to teach you the asanas.The Introductory poses will be held for longer and explored in more detail. The Intermediate poses will help you understand and perform the Beginner poses better. Inverted poses such as headstand (Sirsasana) will be introduced. You will be taught to stay in shoulderstand and headstand for some minutes but always within your capability. With the introduction of additional asanas and a greater focus on moving deeper into each posture, these classes will help you progress in your practice as well as your understanding in your practice of yoga. There is also a chance to learn the restorative poses and an introduction to some basic pranayama which increase relaxation and a feeling of well being.