Discover Iyengar Yoga
Iyengar yoga is based on the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar who created and developed his teachings over 75 years. Recognised as the most widely adopted yoga method in the world, Iyengar Yoga is renowned for its focus on precision, alignment, sequencing, timing and the use of props such as straps, blocks, bolsters and chairs.
In an Iyengar Yoga class, you can expect detailed instructions from the teacher, who will often demonstrate poses to help students deepen their understanding of the postures and develop an overall awareness of body and self. You will be encouraged to work at your own capacity, especially in light of any injuries or health conditions.
All our teachers are certified in the Iyengar method by our national organization Iyengar Yoga Association of Canada (IYAC) and the Ramamani Iyengar Yoga Institute (RIMYI) in Pune, India, a process of many years of dedicated study and mentorship with a senior teacher.”
Our roots are based in Iyengar Yoga. What is Iyengar Yoga?
Iyengar Yoga is named after Bellur Krishnamachar Sundararaja (BKS) Iyengar of Pune, India. He is one of the best known yoga teachers in the world and was named by Time Magazine in 2004 as one of the 100 most influential people in the world. He is the author of many books including the classic work Light on Yoga originally published in 1966 and still used widely by yoga teachers and practitioners of all styles of yoga. BKS Iyengar and his method are known particularly for precise alignment and the development of the use of props to help students achieve maximum benefits from the asanas no matter the physical condition. Often referred to as “meditation in action”, practicing Iyengar yoga develops a strong focus of awareness which unites the mind with the body and breath. This form of traditional yoga practice is based on the eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga, particularly using the tools of asana and pranayama to achieve physical, mental, and emotional stability. BKS Iyengar is also regarded as an expert in the therapeutic applications of asana and pranayama.
Iyengar Yoga teachers must demonstrate knowledge in physical postures (asana), yogic breathing (pranayama), anatomy, Yoga philosophy and precautions for instructing students safely. This certification mark is used worldwide exclusively by Iyengar certified teachers and ensures the highest standards of teaching in the Iyengar method.
Our Teacher
Yogacharya B.K.S. Iyengar (Guruji) was born on December 14, 1918 and passed away on August 20, 2014. He was a legendary yoga master of our times. Through his continuous practice of yoga for over 75 years, he developed and refined “Iyengar Yoga”, an innovative approach incorporating the science, art and philosophy of yoga. Iyengar Yoga continues to evolve from “research based experience” and “experience based research”.
It is characterized by alert practice, precise direction, postural alignment (sometimes enhanced by the use of props designed by Guruji) and the science of sequencing and timing.
Guruji’s teachings were first published in Light on Yoga in 1966, which has since been translated into 18 languages. He is the author of 14 books, including Light on Pranayama; Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and Light on Life – The Yoga Journey to Wholeness.
In 1975 Guruji established the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute (RIMYI) in Pune, India, where he has shared his teachings with thousands of certified teachers and serious students. His legacy of steadfast devotion to the art and science of yoga continues to inspire his students,
“When I practice, I am a philosopher, when I teach I am a scientist, when I demonstrate, I am an artist.” BKS Iyengar
Videos & Links Iyengar Yoga
Here is a link to an article which describes why Iyengar Yoga is ideal for you wherever you are on your yoga journey…even if you have never practiced yoga before.
The article is written by Sally Lee and has been posted in Om Magazine
Here are some websites and videos linking to the Iyengar Website in India and both Canadian and American Iyengar Associations:
Iyengar Yoga National Association of the US
Here are some websites and videos linking to more info about BKS Iyengar:
Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute
Unique Features of
Iyengar Yoga Classes
Teachers are trained to adapt the classic postures (asanas) for individual students.
Attention is given to proper execution and technique.
Emphasis on precise alignment and proper sequencing to achieve maximum benefit.
Detailed and safe instruction from highly trained teachers.
Continuous development from a strong foundation of basic action to refined understanding.
Every class is uniquely prepared for and individual movement and learning experience.
