Yoga In Kerry
IYENGAR YOGA

Yoga in Kerry
Yoga Foundation

What is Iyengar Yoga?
Iyengar yoga evolved from the Yoga Practice of Sri BKS Iyengar who died in 2014 aged 95, having studied and practised yoga for over 70 years. He helped evolve and in many situations enhanced the practice of over 200 asanas (postures) and 14 pranayamas (breathing exercises) ranging from the simple to the very difficult, using a variety of supports. The traditions of this style of yoga were continued by his daughter Geeta Iyengar, who passed away in 2018. His Son, Prashant Iyengar and Granddaughter Abijhata Iyengar carry on the Lineage at the Institute in Pune, South India.
Iyengar Yoga is known for its use of props, such as belts, blocks, chair and blankets. The props enable students to practice the asanas whilst minimising the risk of injury or strain. They make the asanas accessible to young and old, beginners and advanced and assist in the refinement, alignment and deepen the understanding of each asana and the profound effects that Yoga Asana can have in the Body/ Mind. The development of strength, mobility, and stability are emphasized through Iyengar Yoga. An Iyengar class is highly verbal and precise, with misalignments and errors actively corrected by the teacher and props used as and when. More can be read about the Iyengar method here.
What Are The Benefits Of Iyengar Yoga?
Numerous studies have been done on yoga and have found it to promote vitality, flexibility, strength, concentration, and self-confidence. Mentally the benefits come in the form of relief from tension, stress and an increased sense of calm. Iyengar yoga more than any other type has been the subject of clinical trials and it has been found to be effective in easing chronic back pain, headaches, boosting immuno-deficiency, reducing high blood pressure, alleviating insomnia, depression, IBS, PMS and easing a range of musculoskeletal and physiological conditions in addition to relaxing and energising the body and mind.
Iyengar yoga’s benefits are now used by professional athletes including players from Manchester United Football Club, Birmingham City Football Club and both the English and Indian Cricket Team. This is also the case nationally, where yoga is frequently part of GAA teams weekly training schedule.
Who Can Practise Yoga
Almost anyone can practise yoga, regardless of your level of flexibility, strength or balance. Yoga is non-competitive. This means you learn how your body works and maximise its potential. Each individual practice is unique to that person. Everyone has different physical characteristics and history, and so competition or comparisons with others in the room are redundant. However, if you are new to Yoga, please contact Bridget directly, to discuss any health, medical conditions.


Your Yoga Journey
New Students
Yoga is for everyone. Here at ‘Yoga in Kerry’, I welcome new students of all ages and abilities, from children to the Golden Oldies, the super fit and the taking it easy. Whatever your previous experience, you will benefit enormously from yoga’s many excellent attributes. You don’t have to be able to touch your toes, regular class attendance will help you develop your own body’s capabilities and harmonise them with a calmer and quieter mind. Yoga starts on the mat, it has profound effects on your wellbeing and with regular, consistent practice you will realise this for yourself. Your one class a week will set you up mentally and physically for the week ahead, and if you miss a class your body will let you know.
What To Bring/Wear
Eating Before Class
Pregnancy
Classes are relatively strong and not suitable during pregnancy, especially in the first 17 weeks. There are pregnancy classes available, please discuss them directly with me. If however, you have done Iyengar Yoga you can do it after the 17th week although you might find half the class is not suitable, as certain asanas/poses are not recommended during pregnancy at all.