There are many benefits of practicing yoga.  The benefits range from healing chronic injuries to keeping the body strong to avoid future injuries.  Some of the benefits are listed below:

• Heal and/or prevent computer-related injuries (back, neck, repetitive stress injuries, etc.)
• Improve concentration and emotional stability
• Increase strength in every muscle in the body
• Increase flexibility
• Correct posture—as muscle tone and flexibility improve, correct posture is achieved
• Tone the organs of the body
• Control various conditions, such as blood pressure, arthritis, and depression
• Eliminate excess body fat
• Improve circulation
• Improve concentration
• Relieve and improve the digestive and respiratory systems
• Regulate and relieve pain associated with menstruation

There are many therapeutic aspects of the poses.  This very often will eliminate chronic problems caused by injury or aging.  Iyengar yoga emphasizes correct alignment.  The use of props, such as blankets, straps, and blocks help to align the body and to allow those who may have limitations to do the postures safely and effectively.

B.K.S. Iyengar (http://www.iynaus.org/IyengarYoga/BKS/biography.aspx) has dedicated his life to the practice and teachings of yoga. He has systemized over 200 classical yoga Asanas (Physical postures.  What most people think of when they hear the word “yoga”.  It is a scientific system of exercise and physical discipline that promotes physical and mental well being) and 14 different types of Pranayamas (Breath control. Breathing practices that promote a balanced, at ease mind), from the simple to the incredibly difficult.  

The poses are structured and categorized to allow a beginner to progress safely from the basic postures to the most advanced to develop strength, stamina, flexibility, balance, and sensitivity in the mind, body and spirit.   Mr. Iyengar’s technique is unique to other types of yoga in the frequent use of props (Props are objects such as blocks, chairs, blankets, straps, and bolsters.  These help aid the student in performing the postures, to make them more comfortable, to create correct alignment, or to deepen the posture).  Props enable students to work in a range of motion that is safe and help to effectively align the body.

Iyengar yoga is based on a deep awareness of correct alignment and precise actions in the body.  Highly therapeutic, this technique helps to refine your poses which will train the mind to become more alert and focused.

Who should do yoga?

Everyone!  There are poses specifically designed for ALL people of any age, with any physical limitation: strong or weak, young or old.  Poses can range from simple to complex, depending on the students’ practice.  Iyengar yoga classes are unique in that they are taught for all levels of students in one class.  The instructor is trained to know how to alter poses, as necessary.

Almost everyone has some sort of complaint in the body.  WHY NOT USE YOGA TO EASE THE PAIN AND TO ELIMINATE THE PROBLEM!? 

• Mothers.  Those who are mothers of babies and young children who experience pain in the shoulders, neck, arms, back hurt.   Yoga is great during pregnancy as well!  There are postures that will aid in delivery and also to get the body back in shape once the baby arrives.
• Musicians.   Playing instruments for many hours can create tension in the body.  Don’t quit playing!  Yoga can help to heal the problems so you can play again!  Pain free.
• People who use computers.  Not only is ergonomics important, but also doing poses that counteract hours of sitting and typing.  This will help to heal and to avoid repetitive-stress injuries.
• Athletes.  Golfers, tennis players, competitive-team players.  Yoga helps to keep the body healthy and happy so you can continue to play!
• EVERYONE ELSE who does anything throughout the day causing your body pain.

You can avoid surgery. You can avoid taking meds. Use Yoga to heal your body.