Yoga Dipam is the premier Iyengar Yoga institute in Chennai that presents the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar, considered the foremost authority of yoga in modern times. His approach develops self-awareness through precision in the physiological structure and attention to the subtleties of body, breath, and mind. Iyengar Yoga readily accommodates students of all ages, body types, capacities, and medical histories. No one is too old, too stiff or out of shape-all that is required is keen willingness to learn and a genuine curiosity about the subject . Authentic Iyengar certified teachers are unparalleled in their rigorous and consistent training
Stemming from the depths of his own rigorous practice, Iyengar’s teachings have systematically evolved precise posture (asana) and breathing (pranayama) techniques with a firm philosophical base; according to this unique perspective, asana and pranayama are the means by which the practice of yoga can be internalized. This method of yoga is recognized for its thorough exploration of poses as they relate to the physical, emotional, spiritual, physiological and psychological aspects of each individual student. Yogic studies in the iyengar tradition move from gross to subtle. Since one’s gross physical body that includes arms, legs , the spine etc is readily tangible and perceptible to everybody, instructions directed at this level can easily be understood by one and all. With time, the practice transitions to a deeper plane that addresses the organic body and mind.
As the practice matures, the student is refined in their study of the subject and can penetrate it with a more mature and holistic approach. Practice of pranayama begins around this time as students can understand and relate to aspects of breath training. Practitioners readily realize that the subject is not just physical but in fact a deep subtle approach that undoubtedly requires the integration and application of the mind. Iyengar’s teachings are deeply grounded in the yoga sutras of Patanjali, an ancient summation of the path of yoga considered to be at least 5,000 years old.
This class is offered to a select few that are interested in committing to long term study of the subject. Students at this level have an independent regular practice and are guided to further sharpen their skills. Students are additionally trained in the therapeutic applications of the subject as well. Asana and pranayama are death with in great depth. Specific topics are picked by the students and instructor as focal topics for training and study.. Duration and depth of practice greatly escalates. Pranayama is taught in detail.
beginner level classes are designed to introduce students new to Iyengar yoga. Iyengar Yoga is a very precise and a systematic approach to the practice asana and pranayama. Practitioners will readily notice the details entailed and the practical application of the mental focus to the practice of asana. It is therefore essential that any new student regardless of his/her physical ability or experience with other styles of yoga join at this introductory level. A steady foundation to all types of asanas, standing, forward bends, back extensions, twists are given at this level. Students are also actively prepared for inversions that are introduced in the following levels
This is a small group class intended to relieve people of discomfort arising from minor problems of the spine- mostly due to weakness/poor posture or the early stages of degenerative changes. The instructor will pay attention to each individual’s problem, adjusting them hands on when necessary and where a common sequence may be applicable to the small group. This class will not be applicable for patients with severe disorders of the neck and back such as severe stenosis/ degenerative disc disease/ bamboo spine/ myelopathy etc. The next category of classes may be applicable for such cases.
This next level is for mature beginner students: who have a grounded understanding of the beginner classes. The teachings are much more detailed with the focus moving into deeper physiological planes. Independent and supported Inversions are taught in depth in this level in addition to a deepening practice across all categories of asana with a focus of subtler physiological details
Advanced approaches throwing light on how to personalize practice for an individuals constitution as well as the multitude of ways in which props may be used to further benefit from yoga will be taught at this level. Classes are rigorous, intense and engaging and students are expected to have a steady well developed personal practice at this level beneat this level. Pranayama or breath training is introduced at this level. The class duration is 1 and a half hours