Was developed by B.K.S. Iyengar (1918 – 2014). World renown yoga master who wrote Light on Yoga and is credited with popularizing modern yoga.
Iyengar yoga is distinguished by:
– the advanced level of teacher training and oversight needed for teachers to become Certified
– the mindfulness in the teaching of the connection of the body positions with the mind, intellect, breath and inner being
– instructions are precise and often tailored to the individual student
– teachers go through a rigorous training of a minimum of three years and are vetted in a week-long standardized assessment process to become Certified
– there are a dozen levels of certification, the top 4 being given by Mr Iyengar himself.
Iyengar yoga has its roots in Astanga yoga as described in the ancient text, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.
– Astanga means eight limbs and refers to the practices that one undertakes to develop peace of mind and conscious living.
–Iyengar yoga approaches this discipline with a practice of poses (asanas) which develop strength and flexibility, and requires focus and concentration.
– It includes pranayama (the art of lengthening and restraining your breath) and meditation.
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