What are the benefits of Iyengar Yoga?
Since starting this yoga studio, I've realised how much marketing is involved with so many different classes and workshops. Hard marketing doesn't appeal to me, although I'm extremely passionate (and often evangelical!) about yoga. However, I also realise sometimes we all need that encouragement and reason to try or even continue something new. In that sense, "marketing" or words can be helpful to get us to a class or a new place!
So, I will post some of the benefits of yoga below. And yes, of course, I think it's great for you to come to the classes at the studio. Yoga can meet us at all different levels, according to where we are and how we approach it. Yoga is also a constant learning process. We can be sure that if we start and continue in our practice, there will always be something new to learn – not just about our yoga practice, but ultimately about ourselves.
B.K.S. Iyengar said, "Penetration of our mind is our goal, but in the beginning to set things in motion, there is no substitute for sweat." The important thing is to start, and then to maintain regular practice. With that, we improve, progress, and change.
I was with a friend today and I said you should come and try a class. She said, "Oh, I'm not flexible." more reason to come! Even though it can improve it, yoga is not just about flexibility as Instagram would have us believe! Here are some of the reasons I would encourage you to come and try yoga.
Strengthens muscles:
In Iyengar yoga we work towards holding poses which can be beneficial for strengthening and toning the muscles. This is important for overall health and well-being and can also help to improve posture and reduce pain.
Improves flexibility:
In Iyengar yoga we use a variety of props, blocks, bricks, belts, chairs, ropes, and more to help students gain correct alignment in the poses. This will help to gradually stretch the muscles and improve flexibility over time.
Improves balance:
Many Iyengar yoga poses require a great deal of balance. Your balance can be improved with practice and all the other benefits of yoga will also help to address this as well. Improved balance can help to prevent falls and injuries so is vital as we get older.
Reduces stress and anxiety:
In Iyengar yoga we focus on bringing more focus and awareness to the breath and the body. This can help to calm the mind and reduce stress and anxiety.
Promotes relaxation:
Iyengar yoga can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Each class will be different; however, you will find that each class is sequenced in a way that leads you towards a quieter state – ending with relaxation. The practice can also help to improve sleep quality.
Improves posture:
Iyengar yoga can help to improve posture by correcting bad posture, improving alignment and corrcting bad postural habits that we all have. Also strengthening the muscles and improving flexibility. This can help to reduce pain and improve overall well-being.
Helps to relieve pain:
Iyengar yoga can be helpful for relieving pain in a variety of areas, including the back, neck, and shoulders, hips, knees. The practice can also help to improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.
Improves overall health and well-being:
Iyengar yoga can help to improve overall health and well-being in several ways. It can reduce stress, improve sleep, & boost the immune system. It can also help to improve mental clarity and focus.
