Iyengar Yoga Blog
On Aparigraha
In previous posts, I discussed the Yamas (see: On the Practice of Ahimsa and About Satya), here I discuss the fifth Yama – Aparigraha. Aparigraha is the opposite of Parigraha, which means hoarding or collecting. Not consuming more than we need, and not chasing and collecting possessions, leads to a simpler, quieter, and happier life.…
Yoga and Aging — Reflections
Introduction The Yoga and Aging Program, which concluded in November, has been a deeply insightful journey. I learned a great deal from my colleagues and friends: Karin Stephan, Patricia Walden, Peentz Dubble, and Rahel Wasserfall (the program’s coordinator). Although we didn’t meet face-to-face, we had profound online conversations throughout the years of our participation. In…
The Essence of Practice in Iyengar Yoga Method
Over the years, in the many workshops I’ve had the privilege to attend, senior teachers have shared profound insights drawn from the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar and from their own understanding and practice.What follows is a collection of reflections that show how yoga philosophy can manifest through practice. Many of these insights come from the…
A Short Daily Gratitude Meditation
The Five Reflections of Gratitude and Appreciation of the Good We are somehow designed by evolution and the need to survive, to focus on what is missing and on the threats and worries we have. We tend to forget all that we do have, which is so much! Devoting a few minutes to contemplate the…
Exploring the Diaphragm in Asana Practice
Introduction The diaphragm is much more than a breathing muscle—it stands at the threshold between body and mind. In this article, I share insights inspired by Abhijata Iyengar’s classes and references from Light on Yoga, examining how the diaphragm behaves in different groups of asanas. Each pose reveals new possibilities for awareness, breath, and transformation.…
The Five Elements in Practice – Short Version
The Five Elements in Yoga Practice Yoga sees the material world (Prakriti) as composed of five elements (Mahābhūtas):Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether (Space).These elements can guide both our asana and pranayama practice, physically and mentally. 1. Earth 🌍 2. Water 💧 3. Fire 🔥 4. Air 🌬️ 5. Ether (Space) ✨ Quick Summary for…