IYENGAR YOGA
“Yoga is like music: the rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life.”
—B.K.S. Iyengar, Light on Life
The Iyengar Yoga course emphasizes precise alignment, the use of props, and detailed instructions. Iyengar Yoga is known for its focus on alignment and precision, making it suitable for students of all levels, including those with specific physical challenges.
- Objectives: improving alignment, enhancing strength, increasing flexibility, or addressing specific physical concerns.
- Audience: Beginners, and intermediates.
Introduction Session (1st Class)
- Introduction to Iyengar Yoga: Explain the principles of alignment, use of props, and the importance of precision in practice.
- Basic Postures: Introduce foundational poses and how to use props for support.
- Breathing Techniques: Teach the basics of pranayama (breathing techniques) and their integration with asanas.
- Relaxation Techniques: Practice a guided relaxation or meditation.
Weekly Breakdown
Week 1-2: Foundations and Alignment
- Postures: Focus on foundational poses such as Mountain Pose (Tadasana), Forward Bend (Uttanasana), and Warrior Poses (Virabhadrasana I & II). Emphasize proper alignment and the use of props like blocks and straps.
- Breathing: Introduce basic pranayama techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing and Ujjayi breath.
- Props: Learn how to use props effectively for support and alignment.
Week 3-4: Building Strength and Stability
- Postures: Introduction to standing poses and balancing poses such as Triangle Pose (Trikonasana), Extended Side Angle (Utthita Parsvakonasana), and Tree Pose (Vrksasana). Focus on building strength and stability.
- Breathing: Explore advanced breathing techniques such as Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing).
- Props: Learn how to use props to assist in deeper stretches and alignments.
Week 5-6: Flexibility and Advanced Postures
- Postures: Incorporate poses that enhance flexibility, such as Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana), Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana), and various twists.
- Breathing: Emphasize the integration of breath with movement and alignment in more complex poses.
- Props: Utilize props to support deeper exploration of flexibility and alignment.
Week 7-8: Integration and Flow
- Postures: Create sequences that integrate poses learned throughout the course, including standing, balancing, and seated poses.
- Breathing: Practice synchronized breath with movement, focusing on maintaining alignment and stability.
- Props: Continue using props to support practice and refine alignment.
Final Session
- Review: Recap key concepts, postures, and techniques covered during the course.
- Practice: Conduct a comprehensive Iyengar Yoga class incorporating all elements of the course.
- Feedback: Allow time for students to discuss their experiences, ask questions, and provide feedback.
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