At the Yoga Extension we specialise in Iyengar yoga.
B.K.S. Iyengar created Iyengar yoga and was one of the key figures responsible for the popularity of yoga in the West. His method is now the most widely practised in the world.
What makes Iyengar so special?
Iyengar yoga is accessible to anyone. Regular practice increases suppleness, strength and stamina and improves posture. It also aids concentration and quietens the mind to promote well-being.
The Iyengar yoga technique emphasises precision and alignment. We prioritise the quality of movement over quantity. You learn to move with ease in your body while working within your limitations. This makes the yoga postures (yoga asanas) safe to perform. We hold yoga postures for longer than in some other styles. This allows tight muscles to lengthen and relax. We also use yoga props such as blankets, blocks and belts. This increases our understanding of poses and helps improve our practice.
The practice of Iyengar Yoga is progressive.
You build a stable foundation before attempting more demanding work. For this reason, beginners start with standing yoga poses. A fuller range of postures are gradually introduced. These include sitting, reclining, forward extensions, inversions, twists, backbends and arm balances.
Each group of yoga postures develops the body in different yet reciprocal ways. Each has different qualities: grounding, energising, strengthening, stimulating, calming. Yoga Classes at all levels devote time to relaxation. Once the body and mind are strong enough to sit or lie for extended periods without distraction, students learn pranayama. This is a form of yogic breathing.
No two yoga classes are the same. Teachers select yoga poses from different groups to emphasise the various aspects of the practice.