Yoga Vaani 77 – March 2004
Understanding the Meaning of Attachment and Renunciation
Guruji clarifies the philosophical concepts of attachment and renunciation, explaining that true renunciation means attachment to God and divinity while detaching from worldly pleasures, not complete detachment from all duties and relationships.
More from Guruji's Birthday Celebrations: Atmadarshan through Asana
Guruji discusses how the practice of asana leads to self-realization (Atmadarshan) through understanding the intelligent current and life force, enabling practitioners to experience the body from within and transcend attachments to life.
Is Reciting the Invocation to Sage Patanjali a Religious Practice?
Guruji addresses whether reciting the invocation to Sage Patanjali constitutes a religious practice, clarifying the spiritual versus religious aspects of yoga practice.
A Synopsis of Guruji's 85th Birthday Presentation
Prashant summarizes key points from BKS Iyengar's 85th birthday presentation, covering philosophical teachings and practical yoga wisdom.
Learning from Mythology – Ahimsa
An article exploring the concept of Ahimsa (non-violence) through the lens of Hindu mythology and its application to yoga practice.
Yes! He is My Father
A personal article by Geeta Iyengar reflecting on her father, BKS Iyengar, and her relationship with him as both a family member and a yoga guru.
An Octogenarian Yogi – Valda Moore
A profile of Valda Moore, an octogenarian yoga practitioner, highlighting the benefits and possibilities of continuing yoga practice into advanced age.
The Art of Pranayama
An article on the practice and technique of pranayama, exploring its art form and application in yoga practice.
Atamadarshan through Asana
Guruji's presentation on his 85th birthday exploring the objective of achieving 'darshan' of the atman through asana practice, discussing the integration of prakrti and purusa through yoga sadhana.
Transformation of Rajo Guna and the Four Types of Abhyasa
Discusses the interconnections between panca citta bhumi, panca kleshas, panca vrttis, and panca vayus, and explains the four types of abhyasa (arambha, ghata, parichaya, nishpatti) as they relate to the gunas and the path to gunatitan practice.
Is Reciting the Invocation to Sage Patanjali a Religious Practice?
Clarifies misconceptions about reciting invocations to Sage Patanjali and bowing to his idol, explaining that these practices are expressions of gratitude and respect rather than religious observance, and discusses the symbolism of Patanjali's half-human, half-snake form.
Understanding Yogic Terminology: The Trigunas – The Qualities of Nature
Explains the three gunas (tamas, rajas, sattva) as the primeval matter of the universe, their constructive and destructive manifestations, and the goal of becoming gunatitan through understanding and manipulation of these qualities.
A Synopsis of Guruji's 85th Birthday Presentation
A comprehensive synopsis of BKS Iyengar's 85th birthday presentation on yoga and asanas, covering the inner journey of asanas through five stages, the integration of body, mind, and prana, and the philosophical and practical aspects of asana practice including the role of tattvas, bhumis, and pranayama in evolving the practice.
Learning from Mythology - Ahimsa
An exploration of the story of Tuladhara and Jajali from the Mahabharata, which illustrates how a trader teaches a learned Brahmin the principle of ahimsa (non-violence) and its superiority over intense spiritual practices. The article connects the concept of ahimsa to yama and niyama, the foundational ethical principles of yoga.
Yes! He is my Father!
A heartfelt tribute by Geeta Iyengar reflecting on 60 years with BKS Iyengar, describing his teaching methodology that connects simple physical actions to spiritual transformation, his development of yoga props, his exploration of advanced asanas, and his dedication to uplifting all practitioners rather than seeking personal glory.
Guruji's Nature and the Discovery of Props
An excerpt discussing BKS Iyengar's approach to yoga teaching, his challenging methods, and how his deep understanding led to the development of props like the Viparita Dandasana bench with ladder steps for spinal extension work.
An Octogenarian Yogi: Valda Moore
A biographical profile of Valda Moore, an 80-year-old dedicated Iyengar yoga practitioner and teacher who was instrumental in introducing Iyengar yoga to Australia and served as President of the IYTA in Melbourne.
Assessments 2004
Administrative notice detailing end-of-year assessment dates and application procedures for Introductory and Junior Intermediate level yoga courses in 2004.
The Art of Pranayama - Article No. 1
A comprehensive exploration of pranayama as a classical yoga practice, discussing its historical origins, relationship to asana practice, the importance of proper preparation through postures, and the unique challenges and approaches required for pranayama study.
Foundations of Pranayama Practice
An exploration of pranayama practice based on classical yoga texts, emphasizing the importance of gradual, regulated breath work and the subtle benefits that emerge from consistent practice over time.
An Opportunity to Share: Bellur Krishnamacar & Seshamma Smaraka Nidhi Trust
Information about BKS Iyengar's charitable trust established to provide educational, cultural, social, and health-related developmental projects for the upliftment of his native village, Bellur, and other backward villages in India.
Loading document...
Published in: Yoga Vaani
