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The Iyengar method is initatially learnt through
the in-depth study of asanas (posture) and pranayama (breath control).
Mr. Iyengar has systematized over 200 classical Asanas and 14 different
types of Pranayamas (with variations of many of them) from the simple
to the incredibly difficult. These have been structured and categorized
so as to allow a beginner to progress surely and safely from basic postures
to the most advanced as they gain flexibility, strength and sensitivity
in mind, body and spirit.
Asana
The Iyengar method emphasizes a lot on correct
and precise alignment. Correct body alignment allows the body to develop
harmoniously in an anatomically correct way so that the student suffers
no injury or pain when practicing correctly. As all bodies are different
and people have different weaknesses and strengths, Mr. Iyengar has also
developed the use of props to help the body into the correct positions
required. Props are simple objects like wooden blocks, chairs, blankets
and belts that help one adjust or support one in the different postures
so that one can work in a range of motion that is safe and effective.
Mr. Iyengar’s unrelenting emphasis on correct anatomical alignment and
methods of working has refined the therapeutic aspects of yoga. Thus practice
of Iyengar yoga will often result in eliminating aches and pains, improve
postures, etc. but Iyengar yoga can also be used to treat many ailments,
including extremely serious medical conditions, under the supervision
of a suitably experienced teacher. “An Asana is not a posture which you
assume mechanically. It involves thought, at the end of which a balance
is achieved between movement and resistance” BKS Iyengar There are three
unique aspects of Iyengar yoga, namely, technicalities, sequencing and
timing.
Technicalities
Are the precise and often subtle technical
points given to explore the asana fully. Detailed instructions are given
to the student to give the student access to the body beyond the outer,
skeletal and muscular body into the subtleties of our inner glorious mind.
Sequencing
Refers to the order is which we the asanas
are practiced, in which there is a powerful cumulative effect achieved
by practicing asanas in particular sequences. Because each type of asanas
has different effects on the mind, proper sequencing prepares and cultures
the mind, to make it conducive to your yoga practice.
Timing
Are ways that the postures can he held for
different lengths of time to enable a more profound exploration of the
physical and mental challenges of the pose. The timing aspect helps the
effect of asanas to build up, to develop and to surface. All these 3 aspects
together integrate and work together to define the unique “Iyengar” method
of yoga.
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