National Iyengar Yoga Day

A serene image of a person practicing Iyengar yoga in a lush green park, wearing a comfortable yoga outfit, surrounded by peaceful nature.. — National iyengar yoga day illustration

Welcome to the fascinating world of National Iyengar Yoga Day! Get ready to stretch your mind and body as we dive into the history and significance of this special day.

When is Iyengar Yoga Day?

It's national iyengar yoga day on the 16th January.

The Art of Iyengar Yoga

Are you tired of generic yoga classes that don't actually teach you how to properly align your body while striking a pose? Look no further, my friend, because Iyengar Yoga is here to save the day!

B.K.S. Iyengar, an Indian yoga teacher, revolutionized the practice by emphasizing precision and alignment. He believed that yoga is not just a physical exercise but also a path to self-realization. With the use of props such as blocks, straps, and blankets, Iyengar Yoga helps practitioners achieve correct body alignment so that they can experience the full benefits of each asana.

Every year on National Iyengar Yoga Day, yoga enthusiasts across the globe gather to celebrate the legacy of B.K.S. Iyengar and the incredible impact his teachings have had on the yoga community. It's a day to honor the art of Iyengar Yoga and inspire others to explore this unique style.

Why January 16th?

On January 16, 1918, B.K.S. Iyengar was born in Bellur, India. This date marks the birth anniversary of the legendary yoga teacher, making it the perfect day to honor his contributions to the world of yoga.

Did You Know?

In India, Iyengar Yoga is also known as "furniture yoga." Why, you ask? Well, that's because of the extensive use of various props in this style. It's like a yoga studio meets IKEA!

History behind the term 'Iyengar Yoga'

1918

Birth of B.K.S. Iyengar

B.K.S. Iyengar, the founder of Iyengar Yoga, was born in Bellur, India. As a child, he was frail and suffered from various health issues. His brother-in-law, Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, a renowned yoga teacher, recognized his potential and started teaching him yoga to improve his health and well-being.

1934

Yoga practice intensifies

At the age of 16, B.K.S. Iyengar moved to Mysore, where he became a student of Krishnamacharya. During this period, Iyengar's yoga practice intensified, and he began to gain a deeper understanding of the philosophy and techniques of yoga.

1943

Publication of 'Light on Yoga'

'Light on Yoga,' written by B.K.S. Iyengar, was first published in 1966. This book became a seminal work in the field of yoga and introduced Iyengar Yoga to a wider audience. It detailed various yoga asanas (postures) and provided step-by-step instructions, making it accessible to beginners and experienced practitioners alike.

1975

Establishment of Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute

In memory of his late wife, B.K.S. Iyengar established the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute in Pune, India. The institute became the hub of Iyengar Yoga, attracting students from around the world. It continues to be a renowned center for the study and practice of this yoga style.

1984

Recognition of Iyengar Yoga abroad

Iyengar Yoga gained international recognition when B.K.S. Iyengar was invited to teach in the United States. His workshops and demonstrations created a wave of enthusiasm for his style of yoga, leading to the establishment of Iyengar Yoga centers and associations across the world.

2004

Death of B.K.S. Iyengar

B.K.S. Iyengar passed away at the age of 95 in Pune, India. His teachings and contributions to the field of yoga continue to inspire millions of practitioners worldwide. Today, Iyengar Yoga remains as one of the most popular and respected styles of yoga, known for its emphasis on alignment, use of props, and therapeutic benefits.

Did you know?

In India, Iyengar Yoga is also known as "furniture yoga." Why, you ask? Well, that's because of the extensive use of various props in this style. It's like a yoga studio meets IKEA!