What is Iyengar Yoga?

Stemming from the depths of his own rigorous practice, Iyengar’s teachings have systematically evolved precise posture (asana) and breathing (pranayama) techniques with a firm philosophical base; according to this unique perspective, asana and pranayama are the means by which the practice of yoga can be internalized. This method of yoga is recognized for its thorough exploration of poses as they relate to the physical, emotional, spiritual, physiological and psychological aspects of each individual student. Yogic studies in the iyengar tradition move from gross to subtle. Since one’s gross physical body that includes arms, legs , the spine etc is readily tangible and perceptible to everybody, instructions directed at this level can easily be understood by one and all. With time, the practice transitions to a deeper plane that addresses the organic body and mind.

As the practice matures, the student is refined in their study of the subject and can penetrate it with a more mature and holistic approach. Practice of pranayama begins around this time as students can understand and relate to aspects of breath training. Practitioners readily realize that the subject is not just physical but in fact a deep subtle approach that undoubtedly requires the integration and application of the mind. Iyengar’s teachings are deeply grounded in the yoga sutras of Patanjali, an ancient summation of the path of yoga considered to be at least 5,000 years old.

In practice, Iyengar Yoga is known for:

  • Precise body alignment, which is a focused approach that allows the body to develop harmoniously and in an anatomically correct way that is injury proof and nourishing. Regular practice of the Iyengar method and proper use of props will help achieve the correct position and experience the benefits of the pose.
  • Correct sequencing of asanas has a powerful cumulative effect that develops strength, flexibility, stamina, concentration,balance and alignment on the physical , mental and emotional plane.
  • Longer duration of stay in the poses builds stamina and gives time for the benefits of the poses permeate into the individual
  • A safe and systematic progression of yoga postures to develop each student’s ability and skill
  • thorough and tangible approach to asana and pranayama that allows practitioners to understand and experience subtle aspects of breath training and in the process, derive its physiological and psycho-mental benefits

Who are Certified Teachers

Parimala Parthasarathy has practiced Iyengar yoga for over 10+ yrs as a student of Gayathri. She instructs the beginners batches with a deep understanding of the basic poses and techniques

Gayathri Ramesh is an advanced junior certified iyengar yoga instructor with a decade of study, practice and teaching experience. Her certificate has been awarded directly by BKS Iyengar. She has studied extensively at RIMYI, the Iyengar institute headquarters in Pune and considers herself very blessed to have studied with Yogacharya BKS Iyengar and his children, renowned teachers Geeta and Prashant Iyengar. Gayathri has lived in the United States since 2005. Amongst the 800+ certified iyengar yoga teachers in the whole of North America, she is one of the only 11 to hold an advanced level teaching certificate. She has served as an instructor in several Iyengar Yoga institutes in the US : 2005-2009 at the Yoga Circle, Yoga Vidya and Inner wisdom Yoga in Chicago and at California yoga center in 2010-11.
Gayathri is enthusiastic to share the knowledge that has come through her sustained practice and study of the tremendous work, teachings and contributions of BKS Iyengar and his family. Her classes reflect a clear and authentic understanding of Iyengar Yoga that she conveys in a methodical, organized and precise manner. Her classes are engaging, compelling and challenging where she guides students to go beyond their perceived limits.
She immerses herself in the in-depth study of yoga and works progressively towards evolving, refining and fine tuning her study of the subject. She fosters deep, committed and intelligent practices, that explore the depths of the subject.

Parimala Parthasarathy has practiced Iyengar yoga for over 10+ yrs as a student of Gayathri. She instructs the beginners batches with a deep understanding of the basic poses and techniques

Gayathri Ramesh is an advanced junior certified iyengar yoga instructor with a decade of study, practice and teaching experience. Her certificate has been awarded directly by BKS Iyengar. She has studied extensively at RIMYI, the Iyengar institute headquarters in Pune and considers herself very blessed to have studied with Yogacharya BKS Iyengar and his children, renowned teachers Geeta and Prashant Iyengar. Gayathri has lived in the United States since 2005. Amongst the 800+ certified iyengar yoga teachers in the whole of North America, she is one of the only 11 to hold an advanced level teaching certificate. She has served as an instructor in several Iyengar Yoga institutes in the US : 2005-2009 at the Yoga Circle, Yoga Vidya and Inner wisdom Yoga in Chicago and at California yoga center in 2010-11.
Gayathri is enthusiastic to share the knowledge that has come through her sustained practice and study of the tremendous work, teachings and contributions of BKS Iyengar and his family. Her classes reflect a clear and authentic understanding of Iyengar Yoga that she conveys in a methodical, organized and precise manner. Her classes are engaging, compelling and challenging where she guides students to go beyond their perceived limits.
She immerses herself in the in-depth study of yoga and works progressively towards evolving, refining and fine tuning her study of the subject. She fosters deep, committed and intelligent practices, that explore the depths of the subject.