ABOUT IYENGAR YOGA

Yoga in the Iyengar tradition emphasizes a balance between strength, flexibility and endurance. The method of study is orderly and progressive. It utilizes precision of movement and attention to subtle aspects of posture (asana) and breath (pranayama).

This system of yoga has a rich diversity of postures, many of which are accessed through the use of props. B.K.S. Iyengar pioneered the use of simple tools such as blocks, mats and straps as well as more complex inventions such as “backbenders” and boxes designed for specific purposes. Props are used to help educate students about the nuances of the postures. They can also assist a student in achieving the benefits of yoga regardless of age and fitness levels.

In the Iyengar method of yoga, students are first taught the shapes of the poses and concentration is cultivated. Gradually, and with consistent practice, an awareness of the organic process of yoga develops. Actions which further refine the alignment of the poses are learned. At this point, the practice becomes more penetrating and inward looking. Students are guided towards increased self-awareness, and a state of meditation in action and joy in life occurs. This methodical process is at the heart of Iyengar Yoga.

ABOUT ANNA

Anna Delury began the practice of yoga as a teenager in the late 1970’s with such teachers as Mary Dunn, Ramanand Patel and Kofi Busia. She taught her first yoga class in 1979 at the Center for Yoga, Los Angeles. In 1982, Anna was invited to join an intensive given by B.K.S Iyengar at R.I.M.Y.I. in India. Since that time she has traveled regularly to Pune for study with the Iyengar family, most recently in August 2023.

Anna is one of the Iyengar Yoga Institute of Los Angeles (IYILA) founders. At various times during the 1980s and ‘90s she edited the IYASC’s newsletter. Then in 2001, along with Jackie Austin and Linda Nishio, she spearheaded the creation of Yoga Vidya, the print and online journal of the Iyengar Yoga community of Southern California.

Anna earned a BSc. in Kinesiology from UCLA in 1988. She participates in Iyengar Yoga conventions held in the United States both as a student and staff teacher/assistant. Anna also volunteers as an assessor for Iyengar Yoga certification in the U.S. and is deeply committed to mentoring her fellow teachers through this process.

Known for both her insight and wry sense of humor, Anna seeks to transmit the light of yoga that B.K.S. Iyengar kindled in her to each student in every class.