The meaning of Yoga

Yoga is an ancient art dating back some 2000 years.  The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit translation "Yuj", meaning to unite; the union of both the mind and body resulting in a pure and perfect state of consciousness.

Hatha Yoga (yoga of the body) is the most practised form in the western world. It seeks to promote health and well-being, improving main body functions including respiratory, circulatory, digestive and hormonal systems.

Iyengar yoga teaches students to revitalize body and mind with effective physical and breathing exercises.

"Yoga is an ancient art based on an extremely subtle science, that of the body, mind and soul.  The prolonged practice of yoga will, in time, lead the student to a sense of peace and a feeling of being at one with his or hers environment." - BKS Iyengar

BKS Iyengar has devoted a lifetime of study to yoga.  He began in 1936 at the age of 18 and has developed a system of teaching which helps students to progress from the beginner stage to more advanced levels.

His inspiration, attention to detail and alignment of the body has characterized his methods as not only safe, but a fascinating exploration within the art and science of yoga. 

(Picture taken by Lin with permission of BKS Iyengar - Pune '06)                                     

BKS Iyengar is based in Puna, India, where his teaching is passed on with the help of his daughter, Geeta and son, Prachant.