7 Reasons to Practice Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar is one of the most traditional types of Yoga that holds the magical powers to benefit and heal your mind, body, and soul. It is named and developed after B.K.S Iyengar who was a direct disciple of T.Krishnamacharya.

What makes it Unique?

Iyengar focuses on 3 aspects such as:

  1. Alignment: It means performing the pose whilst maintaining the boundaries of your body.
  2. Sequencing: It refers to the order in which the postures are practiced.
  3. Timing: In this form, poses are held for a longer period.

In a single word – this form is best suited for EVERYBODY! It is suitable for beginners, intermediate, and advanced yogis. There are countless reasons to perform this style, but here are the top 7 reasons to give this practice a must-try!

  1. Improves Breathing

When you hold asana with proper alignment, Iyengar teaches you to focus on your breath. Have you ever realized that your hold your breath unconsciously when you are under stress? The more you practice breathing through this form, the less you’ll end up holding your breath unconsciously. After all, oxygen to your brain is a good thing!

2. Protects you from Diseases

You often suffer from diseases when your body doesn’t work properly. In this case, this form of yoga helps improve the overall functioning of your body – from smoothening the circulatory system to calming your nervous system, and to ease your digestive system. When your body works well, your organs are well-nourished, toxins are removed, and automatically, the risk of diseases goes down!

3. Improves Posture

Iyengar helps you strengthen the muscles of your body, like legs, back, and core. This type of posture specifically targets your posture as it is focused on alignment. When your posture improves, your organs will work properly and your overall well-being will be improved. It will give you more energy, less pain, and increase confidence!

4. Provides Relief from Pain

Certain studies have found that a continuous Iyengar yoga practice is sure to provide you instant relief from back and neck pain, which is a common problem that half of the population experiences. Regular practice helps you stretch the muscles of your back and release all the tensions that are a cause of pain in your life.

5. Rewards you with a Calm Mind

Once you have practiced this yoga style, it encourages you to focus on the alignment and ignore all the other negative thoughts that have been hitting your head for so long. Think of this style as a form of meditation. The more you practice this style, the calmer your mind will become. Stick on your mat and experience a calm mind and body.

6. Gives you Toned Muscles

In addition to giving your body a perfect stretch, the physical demand of holding each pose will give you toned muscles and result in increased strength. It not only engages your main muscle, but it also gives attention to small muscles as well. Once you practice this form of yoga, you’ll experience an awesome full-body toning.

7. Results in Greater Flexibility

It’s not always that you need to touch your toes to do Iyengar Yoga, but if you develop a regular practice, you’ll be able to seek perfection. Iyengar is a slow and gentle practice including stretches that are approximately held for one-minute. You can also use props if you want to become an advanced yogi.

Whether you’re new to yoga or just new to Iyengar, we encourage you all to give this form a try and see how it benefits your mind, body, and soul. For more information, you can get in touch!