The word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word "Yuj" that meaning to unite. This presumes integrating all aspects of the human being - body with mind and mind with soul to obtain a happy and conscious life, and spiritually, joining the individual with the supreme.The origins of yoga stem from the verbal traditions of Yogis where knowledge of Yoga was passed from Guru (spiritual teacher) to pupil. The teaching of Yoga is described in the Vedas - ancient Indian scriptures. The final goal of Yoga is to achieve "Kaivalya" or ultimate freedom.
Born in 1918, Mr. Iyengar is a contemporary adept of Yoga. He had been studying yoga to recover from tuberculosis. Afterwards he created his own Yoga concept based on his own experience and traditional forms of Hatha Yoga which he described in the book "Light on the Yoga".
Mr. Iyengar has used over two hundred classical yoga asanas (poses) and different types of pranayamas (type of breathing). These have been ranged to help a beginner to develop from basic poses to the most advanced so he gains flexibility, strength and clarify in mind, body and spirit.
In practice Iyengar yoga focuses on three key elements, namely, technique, sequence and timing. A technique implies to keep correct body alignment so that the student does not suffer from pain during practicing. For this purpose Iyengar Yoga uses some props, such as cushions, benches, belts, blocks and even sand bags which help beginners to perform exercises more easily. Iyengar Yoga emphasizes on standing poses which promote to build strong body, increase general vitality, and develop circulation and coordination.
The other crucial key aspect in the Iyengar system is right sequencing when a vigorous cumulative effect is achieved by practicing exercises in particular sequences. Timing means length of time spent in the poses is to get the better effect for individual. An Iyengar Yoga teaching is verbal and precise, some misalignments and mistakes are actively corrected. Iyengar teachers have to complete two years of strict training to get the introductory certificate.