Transform Your Body and Mind
Purpose of Yoga was to “know thyself”
One can learn about the Antaryamin, or inner controller, which is the source of all healing, via the spirituality of Iyengar Yoga.
Like Socrates, B.K.S. Iyengar often said that the purpose of Yoga was to “know thyself”. This makes the practice not a “work out” but a “work in”.
An integral facet of Iyengar Yoga is its unwavering commitment to precise alignment in every pose. Each posture is thoughtfully designed to ensure the body is in optimal anatomical positioning.
Yoga is renowned for its innovative incorporation of props, including blocks, straps, and bolsters. Far from being crutches, these props serve as tools to assist practitioners in accessing poses more effectively.
The sequence of poses in Iyengar Yoga is meticulously planned to facilitate a gradual progression. Poses are chosen to build upon one another, systematically preparing the body for more complex postures.
The art of pranayama, or breath control, is seamlessly woven into the fabric of Iyengar Yoga. By synchronizing breath with movement, practitioners cultivate a heightened state of mindfulness, facilitating relaxation and concentration.
Higher levels of strength, flexibility, healing and awareness can be reached when more time is spent in each asana (pose). During this time, students reach new levels of consciousness while practicing yoga.
Iyengar Yoga values the individuality of each practitioner. Trained instructors offer variations and modifications to cater to diverse body types and limitations.
Fr. Joe acknowledges both Guruji and Mother Theresa to have blessed Kripa foundation with the Global healing presence.
In 2006 when Kripa Foundation celebrated its silver jubilee, Guruji BKS Iyengar at Rang Sharda gifted Fr. Joe and the Kripa family with the tribute of Kripafoundation Iyengar YogaTM.
Having seen the way Fr. Joe used the teachings of Guruji BKS Iyengar on Yoga for those challenged by various ailments and especially the ailments of Addiction and Addiction related such as HIV AIDS, he publicly acknowledged that this was in its own words a service to God, now Jana-seva is “Janardhana Seva” meaning service to humankind was truly service to God.
The practice of Kripafoundation Iyengar YogaTM at Kripa Foundation has a Psychospiritual and a Psychosocial dimension which is based on the 12-step programme of the Alcoholics Anonymous.
Guruji B.K.S. lyengar and Mother Teresa have been the inspiration to create a very unique method of healing Addiction. The blessing of Guruji on the celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Kripa Foundation was, “May this seed grow into a gigantic tree, spreading hope and healing to the afflicted all over the world”.
Kripa has made a major contribution in the field of Addiction recovery.
Iyengar Yoga's meticulous attention to alignment gradually corrects poor posture habits. Practitioners experience improved spinal alignment, reducing strain on the back and promoting overall balance.
Yoga poses gently lengthen muscles and improve range of motion, gradually increasing flexibility.
Iyengar Yoga encourages practitioners to listen to their bodies, fostering a heightened awareness of sensations and physical limitations. This deep connection between the body and mind creates a sense of unity.
Holding poses for extended periods teaches patience and perseverance. This patience extends beyond the mat, positively impacting one's approach to challenges in everyday life.
Consistent practice helps increase flexibility in muscles and joints. Practicing with precision and focus naturally enhances concentration. The attention to detail in each pose fosters mental clarity and presence.
Iyengar Yoga's therapeutic focus benefits those with chronic pain conditions, such as back pain and arthritis. Specific poses are designed to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
The Best Way of Helping is To Care – Fr Joe Pereira