What to expect from Iyengar Yoga
Yoga became popular in the West in large part through the teaching of B.K.S. Iyengar. His method of learning yoga is now the most widely practised in the world.
Accessible
Iyengar yoga is accessible to all. Regular practice improves posture and concentration, increases suppleness, strength and stamina and quietens the mind to help promote well-being.
High Teaching Standards
All Iyengar yoga teachers undergo a rigorous programme of training lasting years. The teachers at RVY have many years experience practising and teaching yoga and are continually developing their understanding through regular classes and workshops with senior teachers.
Safe
The Iyengar yoga technique emphasises precision and alignment. You will learn to move with awareness and work within your limitations. This makes the yoga postures (asanas) safe to perform.
Use of Props
Yoga Postures are held for longer than in some other methods, allowing tight muscles to lengthen and relax, and helping to focus awareness. Yoga Props such as blankets, blocks and belts may be used to improve your understanding of poses or to help if you have difficulties.
Structured
The practice is progressive, building a stable foundation before attempting more demanding work. Beginners start with standing yoga poses and are gradually introduced to a fuller range of sitting and reclining yoga postures, forward extensions, inversions, twists, backbends and arm balances.
Balanced
Each group of yoga postures develops the body in different yet reciprocal ways and has different qualities: grounding, energising, strengthening, stimulating, calming. Yoga Classes at all levels devote time to relaxation. Once the body and mind are strong enough to sit or lie for extended periods without distraction, students learn pranayama (yogic breathing).
Integrated mental and physical practice
Iyengar yoga has been described as meditation in action. Practising the yoga postures with awareness has an integrating effect and works to harmonise mind and body.
