BKS IYENGAR 14th December th August 2014

Transcription

1 October 2014 BKS IYENGAR 14th December th August Born on 14th December in Bellur, Kola District of Karnataka. Suffered constant ill-health in his youth contracting malaria, typhoid and suspected tuberculosis Father died Moved to Mysore to stay with T.Krishnamacharya, his brother-in-law, who was to become his guru Began teaching yoga, initially to women Was sent to Pune to teach at the Deccan Gymkhana Married Ramamani with whom he had 6 children Began teaching J.Krishnamurti Became teacher to Yehudi Menuhin Taught the Queen Mother of Belgium s Began visiting Europe, UK and USA Published Light On Yoga which has become a yoga classic Visits Brighton to open the first ever purpose built Yoga Institute in Kemp Town Death of Ramamani. Laid the foundation stone of his Institute in Pune The Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute (RIMYI) was inaugurated Published Light On Pranayama Published Light On Life Celebrated 90th Birthday Awarded the Padma Vibhushan, one of India s top civilian awards. Died aged 95 years. I always tell people, live happily, die majestically

2 FROM THE EDITORS Dear Members It is a poignant time in our history as we venture to a future without the living presence of Guruji. Mira, Cathy Rogers Evans and I were in Pune at the time of his death and amidst the grief and sadness there was great optimism and emphasis on the fact that he had put into place all that he could have so that his life s work could continue on. In the words of Abijata (his granddaughter) it is time to step up. During Guruji s last days Abijata was lovingly tending him and had a sharp reprimand, what was she hanging round for, she should Go Practice!. With that in mind we have some great workshops scheduled so please take the time and enrol using the forms at the end of this newsletter. Please drop us a line if you have any yoga related photos or articles that we could include in the Spring Edition. We particularly welcome your personal stories of Guruji or anything about his impact on you. hazel493@hotmail.co.uk or post to Hazel Johnson, 10, Hayes Close, Ringmer, East Sussex. BN8 5HN Namaste Hazel and Mira DAY OF YOGA WITH ALARIC NEWCOMBE Saturday 28th February 2015: Full day or morning only Venue: Brighton Community Base, 113 Queen s Road, North Laine, Brighton BN1 3XG Morning only: 13 IIYS members 17 non-members Whole day: 22 IIYS members 27 non-members NB: please bring your yoga kit as this is not an equipped venue. AGM & DAY OF YOGA WITH JUDITH JONES Sunday 19th April 2015: Full day or morning only AGM to be held during the lunch interval Venue: Ditchling Village Hall, 18 Lewes Road, Ditchling BN6 8TT Morning only: 12 IIYS members 16 non-members Whole day: 22 IIYS members 27 non-members NB: please bring your yoga kit as this is not an equipped centre SEE BACK PAGES FOR APPLICATION FORMS OR VISIT Alaric has been practising Iyengar yoga since 1983 and teaching Iyengar yoga since He is certificated by the Iyengar Yoga Association (UK) as a Senior Intermediate Level 3 Iyengar Yoga teacher. He has been inspired by the direct teaching of BKS Iyengar, his son Prashant, his daughter Geeta as well as senior pupils of Guruji in Britain and Europe. Alaric has a dynamic and flowing teaching style which is focussed and insightful. He challenges inertia and ignorance with sharpness, compassion and humour and is pleased to know that he has a lot more to learn. Judith has been teaching Iyengar Yoga in West Berkshire for well over 20 years and holds classes suitable for beginners and on-going students, as well as for more experienced Intermediate level students and teachers. She is also qualified to teach students with medical problems on a one-to-one basis. Judith holds the Iyengar Yoga Teaching Certificate at Senior Intermediate Level 3, and is a Teacher Trainer and Moderator for the Iyengar Yoga Association (UK). She has studied directly with BKS Iyengar, his daughter Geeta and son Prashant many times at the Iyengar Institute in Pune, India.

3 A YOGA AFTERNOON WITH ANNA MACEDO It was on a rare sunny afternoon in March this year that Anna Macedo taught a splendid three hour Sunday afternoon workshop to a group of 19 students. Despite the fact that few students had actually booked their place in advance, Anna was present early and greeted the arrivals warmly. She instructed us as to where she wanted us to sit. We were in the main studio at the Brighton Natural Health Centre and she had us sitting along the back wall, where she could see us all. She started to receive a trickle of students a quarter of an hour before we were due to start and then more and more kept arriving. They came in pairs, singles, and little groups, the experienced and the neophyte, all eager to learn and practice. Despite the swelling numbers Anna continued with her seating plan while she learned everyone s name and their level of experience, checked out the injury and/ or health problems of the students and made it clear that she had us securely held in her capable hand and eye. There was no getting away. I felt a bit like a kitten being firmly licked and organized by its attentive mother cat. With a clear sense of order and a sharp and lively sense of humour Anna led a very enjoyable workshop, accommodating the different level of experience by differentiating the way in which the poses would be approached, the use of appropriate props and just enough encouragement. Her energy level was steady and strong and it encouraged us to work with enthusiasm and concentration throughout the workshop, her focus and the quality of her voice steady, never flagging. Anna is a Junior Intermediate teacher who has completed her level three exams. Review by Jenny Deadman NEW IIYS WEB SITE LAUNCHED In April of this year our new website was finally launched. Along with the existing features such as summaries on yoga, and Iyengar Yoga, membership of IIYS and links to other related sites, it contains listings of classes by teachers in Sussex which can be viewed by days of the week or searched for by either post code or teacher. The event listings have been improved to include not only IIYS events but also those by other teachers. Visit it soon and find out how vibrant the Iyengar Yoga world is in Sussex:

4 AGM & YOGA MORNING WITH ANDREA SMITH 27th April, The Steyning Centre, Steyning The first thing that I noticed when arriving at the lovely Steyning Centre was the number of other people also arriving. In the end we had a total of 47 attending which may be a record for a half day of yoga. What a very popular teacher Andrea is. Andrea proceeded to give us a very balanced and clearly instructed morning of yoga with something for everyone from relative beginner to teacher. Some of the poses which have remained with me were Anantasana, where you lie stretched out balancing on your side supporting your head with the lower hand and extend your leg in the air holding the toe with the upper arm; Nirlamba Sarvangasana or shoulder stand without the support of the hands on your back; and Supta Pandangustasana III, where one leg bends across the body like Padmasana and you hold the big toe with the arm behind your head. With Supta Padangustasana III I remember feeling how smoothly it came after Andrea had prepared us for it the first time it had felt that way for me. Afterwards we were treated to a lovely buffet lunch prepared by Viju Koria, a teacher from Just Yoga in Worthing.

5 AGM & YOGA MORNING WITH ANDREA SMITH Then followed our AGM which 16 members attended. Below is a brief summary of the meeting. Events: 5 yoga events of varying types were held over the year beginning with our 20th anniversary celebratory two-day event in March with Corine Biria from Paris. This also included our AGM. Other events were a half-day with Mel Palmer in Just Yoga, a day with Cathy Rogers-Evans in Portslade, and a half-day with Anna Macedo in Brighton. We also had a very successful PD Day for teachers with Sheila Haswell in Angmering. Membership: At year s end we had a membership of 78, which shows a slight growth for the second year running. Finances: The accounts were provided by Till & Cloak of Lancing this year. Our income was 7295 and expenditure 7044 leaving a surplus of 251. We completed the changeover from a Santander Business account to Co-op Direct Plus account. Donations: We donated a total of 760 as a result of the success of the 20th Anniversary Weekend to Iyengar Yoga Development Fund, Prison Phoenix Trust and Sadhaka a DVD being produced on the life and teachings of BKS Iyengar (for this we will receive a free DVD and a mention in the credits). Marketing: Hazel Johnson and Mira Shirley have taken over as joint editors of the Newsletter and they have produced two lively editions. A new website is being developed and is expected to launch soon. IY Representatives report: Cathy gave a very informative report on her work as the IY Representative for the Executive Committee of IY UK updating us on next year s convention, progress on acquiring OFQUAL accreditation for the Iyengar Yoga teaching certificate, Teaching Assessments, Archive material, and the possibility of a National Iyengar Yoga Day. The whole of the committee resigned and was re-elected. IIYS Committee: Brian Ingram (Chairman and Treasurer) Randall Evans (Membership Secretary) Sallie Sullivan (Events Secretary) Jenny Deadman (Equipment Secretary) Cathy Rogers Evans (IY Representative) Hazel Johnson (Newsletter Editor) Ali Hahlo (Minutes) Mary Mulligan Mike Bliss Helen Ayling Jen Henwood We then had a call for new members and Colin Mandry and Darren Bloom were proposed and elected to join the committee. A vote of thanks was made to Brian and the committee, and to Sallie and all those who help make the events so successful. The meeting closed at 3.30pm. Brian Ingram (IIYS Chair)

6 YOGA DAY WITH KIRAN CHOTHE A newcomers perspective The workshop held at Sussex University s Dance Studio on June 16th was my first full day Yoga workshop. On arrival by bicycle, I was impressed by University staff actively encouraging me to bring my bicycle into the building for the duration. A delightful welcome indeed. The studio itself was a large cool room, dimly lit which I enjoyed. Having only practised yoga for a couple of years, it was tremendously exciting for me to meet a teacher originally from Pune - Kiran Chothe. As I introduced myself, he asked if I had visited Pune. I have not, but now a wonderful seed of an idea has been planted for the future. I had been concerned about maintaining my strength and stamina for a full day of yoga, but somehow this did not become an issue. Time compressed in the most extraordinary way, and I was easily able to pace myself through the poses. It helped that the poses after a light lunch were largely supine. Lunch with a group of fellow workshop attendees was most pleasant. It was great to meet more of the warm and welcoming community of Sussex Iyengar Yoga practitioners, largely made up of teachers, Since the workshop I have been motivated to practice more at home, in addition to my regular classes. This has been a welcome transition point for me. A huge thank you to all involved in organising this event, and to my teacher Ali for encouraging me to take the leap into a full day workshop. Claire McCrae Another view A summery Saturday in June and a group of yoga students gathered in the spacious dance studio of the University of Sussex to attend a day of yoga with Kiran Chothe. Kiran led a delightful workshop putting us through our paces with a morning programme of some basic standing poses following a roughly traditional sequence. These (and all the poses of the day) were delivered in a simple, clear and uncomplicated manner which both challenged us and brought a fresh approach to our practice of these basic poses. At one point we were privileged to observe an exquisite demonstration of Marichyasana III by Sallie who very obligingly maintained the pose for an absolute age whilst Hazel scrambled around at the other end of the hall for the camera. (see photo!!!) The afternoon session then centred on minor backbends and forward bends with Kiran urging us to get closer to perfection!!! Overall the day emphasised to me the importance of the underlying roots and traditions of Yoga. Kiran s smiling approach, sprinkled with the humble sharing of his knowledge, skills and insights gained during his time spent under the auspices of the Iyengar family ensured a memorable day indeed. Hazel and Mira

7 THE PRISON PHOENIX TRUST From time to time the IIYS donate some of its funds to a small charity called the Prison Phoenix Trust. Here is a taster of the worthwhile work that they do taken from their website ( Who They Are The Prison Phoenix Trust encourages prisoners in the development of their spiritual welfare through the practices of meditation and yoga. What They Do The Prison Phoenix Trust offers personal support to prisoners around the UK and the Republic of Ireland through teaching, workshops, correspondence, books and newsletters. In over a third of UK and Irish prisons, yoga and meditation classes are part of the prison regime. The classes help inmates to reduce aggression and drug use, and develop self-discipline, a stronger will, better mental health, improved self-confidence and a greater sense of responsibility. Some prisons have classes for staff too. They also work in secure hospitals and approved premises. History The Prison Phoenix Trust was established in 1988 to encourage prisoners to practise yoga and meditation, based on silence and the breath. In 2012, Oxford University conducted quantitative research on the benefits of yoga and meditation for prisoners. This resulted in a paper entitled Participation in a 10-week course of yoga improves behavioural control and decreases psychological distress in a prison population which was published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research in July The work of the Trust is entirely dependent on the generosity of people who understand the rehabilitative opportunity which exists in a prison cell and appreciate their work with prisoners. Sir Mark Tully, Rabbi Lionel Blue and Dr Benjamin Zephania are known supporters. The website is well worth a visit to see issues of their newsletter which includes very moving letters from prisoners who have become involved. Hazel Johnson A POEM BY FELICITY GOODSON Felicity wrote this lovely poem on hearing the news of Guruji s passing while she was away from it all on the island of Herm. I sat on ancient rocks of granite blue and breathed in the gift of Guruji s conscience, as the morning sun sipped the sea her light spread like arms... His arms... flowing wide finger tipped to embrace us all as we mourn his passing. Felicity Goodson

8 NOTICE BOARD EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Members Prices Foam Blocks (up to 10) 3.50 Mats: Thick Mats: Thin Belts 3.50 Cork Bricks 6.50 Non-Members Prices Foam Blocks 4.00 Mats: Thick Mats: Thin Belts 4.00 Cork Bricks 7.50 To purchase contact Jenny Deadman, on USEFUL WEB LINKS Institute of Iyengar Yoga in Sussex (IIYS): See our site for IIYS event information, membership details, and many more iyengar links. The Iyengar Yoga Association UK (IYA UK): The Official BKS Iyengar website: GUEST TEACHER IDEAS Been to a workshop recently and thought great teacher let s invite them to Sussex? We d love to hear your suggestions and any details you might have about the teacher e.g. Where they are from etc. If you don t know, not to worry we have a great network! Please Mary on mulligan558@btinternet.com and she will take your feedback and we will use it in our planning. We have completed the planning for 2014 but would love to hear your suggestions for Thank you! WATCH OUT FOR... In 2015 The Hove Iyengar Yoga Studio will be celebrating 10 years. Simon will be organising a few special workshops and events, more details in the spring edition but check out the IIYS website for updates. For classes visit: Brighton & Hove Yoga: Lewes Yoga: The Brighton Natural Health Centre: Just Yoga, Worthing: Honorary member Mike Bliss also has a site with a yoga page: THE FINAL WORD We welcome any comments, contributions and articles relating to Iyengar Yoga in Sussex - reflections on workshops, classes, poems, photos, drawings... By to: hazel493@hotmail.co.uk or by post to 10 Hayes Close, Ringmer, East Sussex, BN8 5HN A huge thank you to all the contributors who helped to make this newsletter possible. THE IYENGAR YOGA CERTIFICATION MARK This mark is only awarded to fully qualified and approved teachers of Iyengar Yoga. In order to qualify for this mark they have to undergo rigorous training, continually update their skills and have the necessary insurance in order to teach. BSK Iyengar BKS Iyengar was born in Bellur in Southern India. After being introduced to yoga by his Guru T.K.V. Krishnamacharya, he went on to study and teach yoga for over 70 years. He taught on all five continents winning global respect and admiration. His books on yoga have become classics, and he is recognised as a major contributor to the popularity of yoga in both the west and east. Iyengar Yoga, named after him and taught in his name, has become a widely practiced form of yoga with teachers and organisations in more than 40 countries around the world. Sussex was one of B.K.S. Iyengar s earliest centres. IYENGAR YOGA IN SUSSEX The Institute of Iyengar Yoga in Sussex (IIYS) is affiliated to Iyengar Yoga UK and is a non profit-making membership organisation committed to promoting the practice and philosophy of Iyengar Yoga.

9 EVENT BOOKING FORM (PLEASE MAKE ALL CHEQUES PAYABLE TO IIYS ) A DAY OF YOGA WITH ALARIC NEWCOMBE I wish to attend the Yoga day with Alaric Newcombe on Saturday 28th February 2015, at Brighton Community Base, 113 Queen s Road, North Laine, Brighton BN1 3XG I enclose my cheque for: Morning only 13 (IIYS members), 17 (non IIYS members) (delete as appropriate) Whole Day 22 (IIYS members), 27 (non IIYS members) (delete as appropriate) Name: Address (with Postcode): I am a member of IIYS: Yes No Tel No: Date: Signed: Please send completed form with cheque payable to IIYS to: Sallie Sullivan, 21 Sun Street, Lewes, BN7 2QB Further enquiries to Sallie on or sallie.sullivan8@btinternet.com IMPORTANT NOTE: If paying for more than one event or for an event and membership together enclose SEPARATE cheques. Cheques will not be banked until just before/after the event. Tick box if you require an receipt, OR enclose a SAE if you require a printed receipt or map (please state which or both). For info on other IIYS events visit: If you are experiencing financial hardship please write to: Brian Ingram, 51 Meadow Lane, Burgess Hill, RH15 9HZ with details. YOGA DAY WITH JUDITH JONES AND AGM I wish to attend the Yoga Day with Judith Jones on Sunday 19th April 2015, at Ditchling Village Hall, 18 Lewes Road, Ditchling BN6 8TT I enclose my cheque for: Morning only 12 (IIYS members), 16 (non IIYS members) (delete as appropriate) Whole Day 22 (IIYS members), 27 (non IIYS members) (delete as appropriate) Name: Address (with Postcode): I am a member of IIYS: Yes No Tel No: Date: Signed: Please send completed form with cheque payable to IIYS to: Sallie Sullivan, 21 Sun Street, Lewes, BN7 2QB Further enquiries to Sallie on or sallie.sullivan8@btinternet.com IMPORTANT NOTE: If paying for more than one event or for an event and membership together enclose SEPARATE cheques. Cheques will not be banked until just before/after the event. Tick box if you require an receipt, OR enclose a SAE if you require a printed receipt or map (please state which or both). For info on other IIYS events visit: If you are experiencing financial hardship please write to: Brian Ingram, 51 Meadow Lane, Burgess Hill, RH15 9HZ with details. IYENGAR YOGA IN SUSSEX The Institute of Iyengar Yoga in Sussex (IIYS) is affiliated to Iyengar Yoga UK and is a non profit-making membership organisation committed to promoting the practice and philosophy of Iyengar Yoga.

10 IYENGAR YOGA IN SUSSEX The Institute of Iyengar Yoga in Sussex (IIYS) is an affiliated institute of Iyengar Yoga Association UK (IYA (UK) ) and is a non profit-making membership organisation committed to promoting the practice and philosophy of Iyengar Yoga. Design & Artwork by Keith Boorsma. keithboorsma@sky.com Phone: