Inversions in Iyengar

“You must savour the fragrance of posture. Until you are relaxed, you cannot savour the fragrance “ BKS Iyengar.
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The fragrance of Sirsasana is a deep, calming and grounding blend! With a top not of clarity. That’s why Guruji called it the King of Asana. (The Queen is Sarvangasana). 

Inversions are an important part of an Iyengar yoga practice as there are deep physiological and mental benefits. There are many methods of going upside down which don’t always entail standing on your head. You’ll find them in restorative sequences and in Backbends sequences in fact in pretty much any sequence if the teacher chooses to feature it. But one place you won’t find a headstand, is in the ‘Beginners’ classes, as we need students to connect with their limbs and develop body intelligence first. Inversions give extraordinary benefits:- they revitalise the whole body system, help concentration, aid meditation and pranayama, and aid sleep - the list go on ad infinitum. .

There aren’t many “rules” in Iyengar, but one rule we do have is that Sirsasana is always followed by Sarvangasana. Sirsasana is dynamic and active and when practiced on its own can produce a feeling of irritability. Sarvangasana, however is quietening and soothes the nervous system. When combined you can leave your practice leaving feeling alert and calm which is the best possible combination. .

Iyengar yoga is a creative yoga, which means there is room for everyone and all bodies, so if headstand is not for you there is always a rather wonderful alternative that can bring about similar benefits
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