The transition of a legend. I bow my head to my heart and give thanks to the incredible Sri Guruji B.K.S Iyengar who left his physical body in Pune on August 20, 2014. The ripples of this great yogis impact, on my personal practise and the transformation of how the western world views Yoga will continue to be felt for many years to come.
I’m sure I’m not the only one who affectionately refers to their copy of Light on Yoga as their “bible”. What started as a constant companion through my Yoga teacher training is still carted around the world with me in my back pack today. It looks (and is) well loved.
I’ve been reflecting and reaffirming my fondness for some of Iyengar‘s most quotable words. Narrowing it down to 10 pearls of wisdom was as tough as attempting Dūrvāsāsana with your eyes closed. Side note: I’ve never attempted Dūrvāsāsana but it sure looks tough!
“Yoga is light which once lit, will never dim. The better your practice, the brighter your flame.”The Path to Holistic Health
“Yoga is like music; the rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind and the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life”. Light on Yoga
“If you take up any noble line and stick to it, you can reach the ultimate. Be inspired, but not proud. Do not aim low; you will miss the mark. Aim high; you will be on the threshold of bliss.” Light on Life
“The person practising svādhyāya reads his own book of life, at the same time that he writes and revises it”. Light on Yoga
“Where does the body end and the mind begin? Where does the mind end and the spirit begin? They cannot be divided as they are interrelated and but different aspects of the same all pervading Devine consciousness.” Light on Yoga
“Action is movement with intelligence. The world is filled with movement. What the world needs is more conscious movement, more action.” Light on Life
“You do not seek freedom in a different land, for it exists with your own body, heart, mind and soul.” Light on Life
“It is through your body that you realise you are a spark of divinity.”Light on Yoga
“The union of nature and soul removes the veil of ignorance that covers our intelligence.” Light on Yoga
“The yogi believes that his body has been given to him by The Lord not for enjoyment alone but also for the service of his fellow men during every wakeful moment of his life. He does not consider it his property. He knows that The Lord who has given him his body will one day take it away.” Light on Yoga
Have any of these books or quotes influenced you? If Mr Iyengar has played a role shaping your yogic path, I’d love to hear your experiences!
Leave A Comment