Friday, April 10, 2009

What is the History of Restorative Yoga?

Judith Lasater says,

The development of these poses is credited to B.K.S. Iyengar, of Pune, India. Author of the contemporary classic Light on Yoga and numerous other books, Iyengar has been teaching yoga for more than sixty years. Widely recognized as a worldwide authority, he is one of the most creative teachers of yoga today.

Iyengar's early teaching experience showed him how pain or injury can result from a student straining in a yoga pose. He experimented with "props," modifying poses until the student could practice without strain. Iyengar also explored how these modified poses could help people recover from illness or injury. It is because of his creativity that the restorative poses in this book (Relax and Renew)-most of which have been developed or directly inspired by him-are such powerful tools to reduce stress and restore health.”



Sara's note: When you can experience the deliciousness of a Restorative pose for yourself you will know why I am grateful to both BKS Iyengar and to Judith Lasater for their work in this area. Visit my Restorative Focus Pose category to see how you can treat yourself to some deep relaxation and stress relief.