Iyengar's yoga, a type of hatha yoga, focuses on prioritizing the body's physical alignment in poses. Joon Faii Ong believes practitioners can learn a correct way to accomplish each posture. Additionally, it teaches that every student can eventually appreciate tiny body movements and achieve perfect poses through persistent practice. Iyengar thought that once a student's body was balanced, their mind would soon reflect it.
The use of props was one of Iyengar's main innovations. Today, it is extremely common to see blankets, blocks, belts, pillows, chairs, and bolsters utilized in yoga studios. The usage of these props is relatively new in the history of yoga, so people directly attributed it to Iyengar. Joon Faii Ong believes the props help pupils have the best alignment possible while their bodies open up.
There Is No Flow
Vinyasa flow is the fluid transition from one pose to another while inhaling or exhaling. Iyengar yoga is different, and poses are instead held for extended periods as the students perfect their alignment. So, Joon Faii Ong believes Iyengar yoga does not provide as intensive a cardiovascular workout as a more flowing form like Ashtanga.
However, Joon Faii Ong believes holding the poses is demanding, increases strength, and is terrific for building flexibility. The absence of flow is another reason why the Iyengar technique makes yoga accessible to a wide range of people. It is an excellent starting point for folks who cannot undertake a flowing style practice due to physical limitations.
Is Iyengar Yoga a good fit for you?
Joon Faii Ong believes people should not take Iyengar classes lightly. It is not simple and easy, even though it is adaptable to different levels. Iyengar is intriguing to expert yogis looking to improve their alignment. Iyengar-style practice is ideal for thorough, technical people interested in anatomy who appreciate tiny body movements. Even if you never take an Iyengar yoga class, Joon Faii Ong believes Iyengar's impact is so strong that you will undoubtedly see it in how his practice teaches poses and use props across the yoga spectrum.