What is Yoga in the Iyengar Tradition?
Yoga is an ancient Eastern Indian system of balancing body, mind and spirit. The goal of Yoga is to have a peaceful, clear mind in a sound, healthy body. Hatha Yoga is the aspect of Yoga, which approaches this goal through the physical side of the individual. Named after its founder, B.K.S. Iyengar, the Iyengar tradition is renowned for its precise attention to alignment and anatomical detail. The Yoga postures (asanas) work each part of the body to release and lengthen muscles, increase fluidity in the joints, and promote flexibility of the entire skeletal system. They benefit the internal organs, glands, and nerves as well. The asanas are done with deep, controlled breathing, which enhances the flow of oxygen to the brain and body, erasing stress and increasing energy, thus creating a sense of well-being.
