What is yoga?

Yoga is a Sanskrit word that derives from the root "yuj" meaning to bind together, or "to yoke." The harnessing and uniting of the powers of the mind, body, and emotions under the guidance of one's intelligence is one aim of yoga. Wherever self-mastery or the pursuit of the sacred are mentioned, there is yoga. Techniques that develop the body (hatha), the mind (jnana), the emotions (bhakti), one's actions (karma) and one's soul (raja) are yogic paths of self-realization.

What is hatha yoga?

Hatha yoga is classical system which coordinates body, breath, and mental focus. Consistent practice over time releases accumulated tensions in the muscles,calms frayed nerves, restructures alignment, detoxifies the blood stream, increases oxygen absorption, changes brain wave patterns, and induces felicity through improved respiration and hormonal circulation.

What is Iyengar yoga?

BKS Iyengar is a living master of Yoga. He resides in Pune, India and is the author of Light on Yoga, Light on Pranayama, The Tree of Yoga, The Art of Yoga, and Light on the Yoga Sutras. He became proficient in the body postures at an early age, and has been refining his practice for over 60 years. Unparalleled as a teacher, he is a motivator par excellence. His innovative method sets his style apart because of his (1) emphasis on standing poses that develop strength, vigor, and correct alignment, (2) supported inversions and back bends that passively relax the nerves, (3) use of props to facilitate ease and depth of learning, (4) specific sequencing of postures for general and therapeutic benefits, and (5) careful, individualized adjustments. Mr. Iyengar says, "There is no Iyengar yoga, only Yoga," the urge to join the body, mind, and spirit: embodying freedom through skill in action.