Iyengar Yoga
The Iyengar yoga method uses a precise and systematic approach to yoga, beginners start with simple asanas according to individual ability.
Progress is gradually made by adding more detail and refinement.
People of all fitness need to start at the beginning to build on a foundation of correct practice and understanding. Each asana is studied in depth, practicing in this way focuses and quietens the mind.
Yoga can be seen as a tool which helps us locate our inner connection, it is where we reunite with our higher power, our purpose for life.
Hrewre Kevin Gardiner demonstrates the use of the wall which enables one to get a secure fixture to press the feet and legs, and actaully allow one to extend more through the arms.
Yoga energises, relaxes, strengthens and promotes correct breathing. Asanas build stamina and improve concentration making one feel benefited with a positive outlook, enthusiasm and a general sense of self awareness.
Props used for asanas
One of the biggest contributions to yoga, that Mr Iyengar has brought about is that he has studied the postures in fine detail, and introduced the use of props in order to help one in postures.
The types of props include
- Belts
- Blocks
- Bricks
- Blankets
- Chairs
- Ropes suspended from the wall
- The wall
- Other furniture, ledges
These props can be used to make the posture more accessible for beginners.
So if one is practicing reverse trikonasana, and one’s hand cannot reach the ground, then the use of a cork brick can allow one to lean on the cork brick in order to become reasonably stable.
And then one can focus on straightening the legs, leveling the hips, extending the spine, and also rotating the spine.
Other schools of yoga would have allowed the student to hold onto their ankle if they could not reach the ground.
Or possibly to compromise the posture by bending the knee of the front leg.
But the Iyengar emthod prefers to preserve the main core components of the posture (straight legs, extended spine) and use a prop to aid correct alignment within the posture.
For axample when one is practicing a forward bend, sometimes props are placed under the head in order to provide steadiness and also support the weight slighty.
So instead of ‘holding oneself’ in the posture, one can ‘let go’ and this allows an inner relaxation to occur, and allow one actually to sink deeper into the posture.
Iyengar yoga students from London, the UK and Dublin
Many Iyengar students come for weekend and week long Iyengar yoga workshops to the Burren Yoga and meditation Centre.
The centre is a 1 hour flight from London, Birmingham, Luton and many other airports in the UK.
Dublin is a 3 hour drive or one can take a train or bus. Getting here
Kevin Gardiner is a member of the B.K.S. Iyengar Institute of Greater New York.
Report of Iyengar week Sep 2002
Photos of Iyengar yoga in Ireland
Christmas 2005 Iyengar yoga retreat
Iyengar yoga in Ireland
Greg Walsh runs two yoga studios called Samadhi Yoga. One in Dublin, and the other in Drogheda.
Greg teaches Iyengar yoga here at the Burren Yoga and Meditation Centre.
Try a weekend ?
Reviewed 14th March 2019
