Iyengar’s journey into yoga began at a young age when he was plagued by poor health. He suffered from various illnesses, including tuberculosis and typhoid fever, which left him weak and with a frail constitution. However, his life took a turning point when his brother-in-law, Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, a renowned yoga teacher, took him under his wing.
Under Krishnamacharya’s guidance, Iyengar not only regained his health but also developed a deep passion for yoga. He dedicated his life to the practice, spending countless hours mastering the asanas (poses) and exploring the depths of yoga philosophy. Iyengar’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and his unwavering dedication to yoga laid the foundation for his groundbreaking contributions to the field.
One of Iyengar’s key contributions to modern yoga is his focus on alignment and precision. He believed that correct alignment in each asana was crucial for reaping the maximum benefits and preventing injury. To facilitate this, he introduced various props, such as blocks, straps, and blankets, which helped practitioners of all levels achieve proper alignment. This approach, known as Iyengar yoga, revolutionized the way yoga was taught and made it accessible to people with physical limitations or injuries.
Iyengar’s teachings went beyond the physical aspect of yoga. He emphasized the importance of incorporating yoga philosophy and principles into daily life, encouraging practitioners to cultivate mindfulness, discipline, and self-awareness. His teachings offered a holistic approach to yoga, integrating the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the practice.
In addition to his focus on alignment and philosophy, Iyengar introduced the concept of sequencing in yoga practice. He believed that the order in which asanas were practiced played a crucial role in achieving optimal results. His sequencing techniques are designed to gradually warm up the body, build strength and flexibility, and restore balance. This meticulous attention to sequencing laid the groundwork for structuring yoga classes in a way that supports the needs of each individual practitioner.
Iyengar’s teachings gained recognition on a scale, and he traveled extensively, conducting workshops and training programs around the world. He authored several influential books, including his seminal work, “Light on Yoga,” which has been translated into multiple languages and remains a cornerstone text for yogis worldwide.
Even in his later years, Iyengar continued to innovate and expand his yoga repertoire. He developed therapeutic yoga for specific ailments and established the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute in Pune, India, to ensure the preservation and promotion of his teachings. The institute serves as a hub for yoga enthusiasts and aspiring teachers, upholding Iyengar’s legacy and perpetuating the practice he dedicated his life to.
BKS Iyengar’s impact on modern yoga cannot be overstated. His meticulous approach to alignment, emphasis on sequencing, and incorporation of yoga philosophy have made yoga a comprehensive practice for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. His teachings have inspired countless individuals to explore the transformative power of yoga and have left an indelible mark on the world of wellness. As we continue to explore the depths of this ancient practice, let us not forget the pioneering efforts of BKS Iyengar, the true guiding light of modern yoga.