"The aim of yoga is to calm the chaos of conflicting impulses" BKS Iyengar

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Q: Is yoga a religion?

A: No. Yoga is the process of integrating mind, body and spirit. One need not be religious to benefit, however, the practice of yoga may enhance one's religious experience.

Q: What is the difference between Iyengar yoga and other styles of yoga?

A: Iyengar yoga develops strength, endurance, flexibility and relaxation by paying close attention to body alignment in each asana. There is an emphasis on standing asanas . These postures build strong legs, improve circulation, increase vitality, and improve coordination and balance.

Meditation occurs as the practitioner becomes absorbed in the moment through attention to postural alignment and breath movement. As the mind, body and breath unite, the practitioner moves into a meditative state. The practice leads to self-exploration and one becomes aware of physical tension patterns and psychological resistance. Through regular practice the student's inner awareness is enhanced and the ability to relax and concentrate is improved.

In Iyengar yoga, candle gazing, incense burning, or music, often associated with yoga, are not used.

Q: How is Iyengar yoga different from exercises such as calisthenics, aerobics or other Western-style exercises?

A: Western style exercise tends to be goal-oriented, for example, touching the toes ten times or raising the heart rate to a certain level. In Iyengar yoga, much less emphasis is placed on goals. Rather the students are encouraged to finely tune the manner in which they move. Extreme concentration is focused on the performance of the asanas and attention is drawn inward, quieting and integrating mind and body.

Q: Why is it important to improve the precision of alignment when performing asana, as taught in Iyengar yoga?

A: Generally, when conventional exercises are done, misalignment is reinforced. Due to ignorance of how to move correctly, people tend to rely on their better developed muscles for strength and stretch from their more flexible areas. In Iyengar yoga, students are encouraged to strengthen in areas of weakness and to stretch areas of the body which are stiff. This awakens and realigns the whole body. As alignment improves, less muscular work is required and the practitioner naturally experiences increased relaxation.

Q: I have a book or a tape on yoga, is this a good way to start yoga?

A: Due to the popularity of yoga, there are now many books and tapes on the market. It is important that you find a competent teacher to guide you in your practice. The role of the teacher is to observe the students and to provide individualized adjustments and instructions to prevent students from developing poor habits which may lead to injury or misconception. Students should enroll in Basic level classes, commit themselves at least once a week, and stick with it so that they develop an understanding of how to correctly align their postures. Even students who have practiced other styles of yoga should take this approach, as the sound principles of movement and alignment, on which the entire Iyengar approach is founded, may be new to them.

Q: If I have problems with my health, can I practice Iyengar yoga?

A: A student who pays attention to the teacher and who practices intelligently will not harm, but will often help, a weakened physical condition. If you have a physical problem or medical condition, please inform your teacher before class begins, so that the teacher may give individualised attention to help with your approach to the asanas.

Intermediate level Certified Iyengar yoga teachers have been trained to deal with students who have some of the common physical ailments and medical conditions. Sometimes private sessions are necessary to help the student to learn how to work therapeutically. Contact us for more information.

Q: I am embarrassed to join a class because I am so stiff or weak. Do I need to be flexible and strong to join class?

A: Iyengar yoga is for everyone. Your teacher will provide you with instructions and adjustments, using props such as belts and blocks to enable you to work with your stiffness. Gradually flexibility is gained. Strength will be improved over a period of time as students work within their own limitations. Competition is discouraged and students are reminded to remain sensitive to their present state rather than trying to keep up with others.

Q: Will Iyengar yoga help me to lose weight?

A: Through the practice of Iyengar yoga, students feel more of a sense of power and control over themselves. Through the strengthening of the will and increased sense of calm, students may be able to control their appetite and eliminate poor eating and lifestyle habits. Also yoga practitioners become more sensitive to the effects of poor eating habits on the body and not to overindulge.

Q: What does it mean to be a certified Iyengar yoga instructor?

A: Certification means that an instructor has satisfied the rigorous requirements of the Iyengar Yoga National Association of the United States. In order to gain certification, a candidate must be first recommended by two senior level certified Iyengar teachers, attesting to his or her readiness to apply for certification assessment.

Candidates then undergo a three-part assessment. The written portion evaluates their knowledge in areas such as the asana, yoga philosophy, sequencing of a class for various purposes, and dealing with students who have injuries or common problematic health conditions. The second portion of the assessment is a demonstrated practice of the poses on the candidate's syllabus. Teaching skills are evaluated in the final portion of the exam. A certain level of proficiency must be met in order to pass the assessment.

There are 10 levels of certification in the Iyengar system.