Senior Iyengar Yoga Teacher Kathy Cook demonstrate a Yoga pose

Iyengar Yoga-Core Strength

Abdominal Toning and Lower Back Strengthening

The Core can have different meanings for different people. In Iyengar Yoga, we emphasize the importance of not straining the abdominal muscles through excessive use, in order to avoid developing a six-pack. Instead, it is essential to strengthen the core by lengthening and using the breath effectively, which naturally leads to firmness.

Firming the muscles in the core also strengthens the lower back. Toning the back muscles and strengthening the hips and abdominal organs are the benefits of these postures. They help improve the functioning of the liver, spleen, and pancreas, combating laziness in these organs.

If the lumbar and abdominal muscles are weak, it is advisable to focus on standing postures and forward bending exercises until you have built enough strength and stability in your practice to avoid straining your back.

Since the core area houses the reproductive system, it is important to be mindful of any strain caused during practice. Women with menstrual disorders, uterine displacement, and excessive bleeding (leucorrhea) should avoid these postures until they have found balance through their practice, including inversions that address hormonal imbalances.

It is recommended to consult a physician and a local Iyengar teacher to receive appropriate guidance and support in creating a sequence that helps balance your systems without worsening any existing conditions.

This sequence includes:

Paripuna Navasana Preparation

Paripuna Navasana w/ strap, w/o strap

Dandasana

Parsva Dandasana

Ardha Navasana w/ bolster, hold legs

Pascimottasana

Ardha Navasana w/ bolster Hand behind head

Pascimottasana

Ardha Navasana w/o bolster

Pascimottasana

Parsva Pascimottasana

Ubaya Padangustasana

Baddha Konasana

Adha Mukha Baddha Konasana

Urdhva Prassarita Padasana w strap and w/o strap

90, 60, 30

Jathara Parivartanasana

bent knees

straight leg

Dwi Pada Parvan Muktanasana

Savasana w/ bolster