Iyengar Yoga Association of Canada Newsletter/Les nouvelles de l'acyi

Transcription

1 Tribute to Sri BKS. Iyengar October 2014 Iyengar Yoga Association of Canada Newsletter/Les nouvelles de l'acyi What Does One Do When Their Guru Dies? A Celebration of Guruji's Life at The Yoga Space by Linda Shevloff (Vancouver, BC) Life moves. There is no death. There is no birth. Life is like a river... moving without any stop. BKS Iyengar Puja table at the Vancouver Gathering On August 20th of this year, Iyengar yoga practitioners around the world received the news that our Guruji, BKS Iyengar had died. While it was not unexpected, (he was, after all, 95 years old), it still came as a shock. I read the news on my computer, early in the day. I wondered what I should do. In part I just wanted to go to Pune immediately and be there. But then where was the sense in that? What would the family do if students flocked to the Institute during their period of mourning? They needed their peace. Besides, I was teaching the summer yoga session at The Yoga Space while Louie Ettling was away, and I had responsibilities there. I thought about what Guruji would want us to do; continue with our practice and teaching. The class that morning was larger than most of the classes that summer. Clearly everyone had heard the news. There was silence and there were tears and emotions and questions. What does one do when their Guru dies? All I could 1 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

2 think to do was lead the Patanjali Invocation and then do the asana practice Guruji had called The Practice for Emotional Stability (from Light on Life). The sequence worked beautifully; by the end of class there was calmness and clarity in the room. It was as if he had already taught us what to do; we just needed to recognize it. Deb Peake performing Guru Stutee Puja The event unfolded with little preparation but a lot of heart. A number of teachers and long-time students stayed afterwards. We wanted to gather with other Iyengar yoga students in the city to celebrate Guruji's life and to share this time that felt so tender and precious. Meenu Chaudhary said that in India there were certain special days after a death and that the third day was one where family and friends would gather. Gerie Primerano, Julie Gilbert, and Cheryl Joseph, along with a few others, agreed to contact the Vancouver Iyengar Yoga Association (VIYA) to invite everyone to come together at The Yoga Space on Saturday, August 23, to remember Guruji. 2 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

3 Linda Shevloff and Khairoon Quadir The event unfolded with little preparation but a lot of heart. Rose Rodden, on behalf of VIYA, brought a condolence book while others brought flowers and fruit for the altar. Deb Peake led a Guru Stutee Puja (an offering to express your love and devotion to your Guru). We said prayers and chanted verses to help us express our feelings and to wish godspeed to Guruji's soul on its journey. Maureen Carruthers, one of the pioneers of Iyengar Yoga in Vancouver (and Canada), was unable to attend, but sent a letter to express that she was with us all in spirit. Donald Moyer sent a letter from his home in Berkeley. Hilda Pezzaro brought flowers from her garden and though she is no longer speaking publicly, she joined us with a quiet presence. Gerie Primerano read from a recent blog by local teacher Luci Yamamoto. Luci was in Pune (for her first time) when Guruji died and attended his cremation ceremony, which she wrote about. 3 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

4 Ingelise Nherlan telling stories of the early days A few of us recounted stories about Guruji - his humour, his energy, his ferocity, his keen awareness, his brilliance. Ingelise Nherlan, Sarah Godfrey, and I all told some funny stories about experiences with Guruji that had everyone laughing. Khairoon Quadir spoke of cooking for him and his family on several occasions. Jane Munro read excerpts from a 2009 interview she did with Guruji in India. [Ed. note: to be included in the November newsletter.] Near the end of the interview Guruji spoke about how he had little patience with old people who complain of their ailments. He just got on with his life. He lived it to the full. From his hospital bed, Guruji wrote to his students and left a message to all of us. He expressed a wish that we be united with others and that we continue to practice. He said that he is always with us, that there is no separation. He said we should, "live happily and die majestically." Right to the end he was teaching us how to live - and how to die. The gathering did not have the air of a funeral, but rather a sense of celebration for a life so well lived. Everyone was filled with gratitude and love. We went home with spirits uplifted. Thank you Guruji for the gift of your life, your dedication and your teaching. We will miss you but never forget you. Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti 4 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

5 The Vancouver Gathering Linda Shevloff is a Senior Canadian Iyengar Yoga Teacher, who has been active in IYAC from the beginning. Linda began studying with Shirley Daventry French in Victoria in 1980, continuing her studies with Shirley even after she moved to Hong Kong in 1994, where she founded and directed the Iyengar Yoga Centre Hong Kong. Over the past 30 years, Linda has studied with the Iyengar family in Pune many times. She currently spends the winter months in Koh Samui, Thailand, and summer months in Vancouver, BC. My Recent Visit to Pune; My Last Visit with Guruji by Laurie DeBray (Kelowna, BC) Arriving in Pune, I was both excited and curious to see if things had changed much at RIMYI since my last visit in I wondered if we would still see Mr. Iyengar in the practice hall keeping a sharp eye on Abhijata and Raya while coaching their asana work, or observe him deeply absorbed in his own practice. I wondered if Geeta might honour us with the strength of her teaching for some of our classes over this one-month session. Such were the images imprinted in my memory. However, we soon learned that Mr. Iyengar was unwell with a fever. For the first several days we caught glimpses of Guruji sitting at his desk, watching the many students coming from and going to classes. We were all feeling concerned for his wellbeing and recovery. Our spirits lifted one sunny day when he appeared in a wheelchair on the front porch, his granddaughter, Abhijata by his side. I was privileged to have this opportunity to touch Guruji's feet and bow Namaskar as he returned a beautiful smile. In the days that followed, Guruji's condition steadily declined until he could no longer remain at home and he was transferred to hospital. Soon it was Geetaji we saw sitting at the desk inside their home, a look of grave concern written on her face as her father's condition became increasingly critical. On August 20th, we awoke to the news that Guruji had taken his last breath at 3:15 a.m. that morning. The rest of the day seemed dreamlike and surreal as the reality of it all began to penetrate our awareness. 5 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

6 I was moved to tears as I met the deep sadness in the eyes of family members, especially Geetaji and Prashant who have so closely followed in their father's footsteps. A steady procession of students, friends, and neighbours came to pay their respects to the family and bow down to the now lifeless body of Guruji. I was moved to tears as I met the deep sadness in the eyes of family members, especially Geetaji and Prashant who have so closely followed in their father's footsteps. It was a most precious experieince to attend the cremation ceremony, which the family so generously opened to us all. Amidst prayers, chanting, and ritual, Guruji's body was laid to rest in sandalwood and the funeral pyre was lit. As the flames rose higher and brighter, I thought how great a light this man has brought to the world. His brilliance will continue to shine through his teachings and in the hearts of all who have loved him. As we contemplate the words of our beloved teacher, Guruji, let us continue to carry forward, and keep the torch of his yoga teachings bright: "It is my profound hope that my end can be your beginning" - BKS Iyengar ( ) Laurie became a student of Iyengar Yoga at the Kelowna Yoga House (KYH) in In 2008, she attended the IYAC Conference with Geeta Iyengar in Penticton. She studied with the Iyengars at RIMYI in 2009, and again in August Laurie is working towards her Introductory Level II certification. She continues to be inspired by the depth, intelligence, and transformative nature of yoga practice and is deeply grateful to Guruji, who has spread the light of yoga into so many hearts worldwide. Three is Auspicious by Gwynneth Powell Sobejko (Monroe, Connecticut) I received news of the IYNAUS (Iyengar Yoga National Association of the US) commemorative practice to honour Guruji's life in Monroe, Connecticut - where I am the only Iyengar Yogi. Still, as a new US resident, I wanted to do something. I decided to organize a local commemorative practice for BKS Iyengar simultaneous with the practice of Iyengar Yogis all over the United States, (and Canada). I found a lovely, rural yoga space at Sticks and Stones Farm, in the neighbouring town of Newtown. The commemorative practice was to begin at 8:30 pm, and I offered a one-hour restorative yoga session beforehand. 6 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

7 I knew of two people who would attend. With myself, that would be three. And that was auspicious enough for me. I contacted all yogis in the Southeastern Connecticut area using posters, , and social media. Then I waited, content in my heart with Guruji's advice, "If one person comes, say 'Good. Now I can teach.' And if nobody comes, say 'Good. Now I can practice.'" I brought every Iyengar book I had to demonstrate to those who might not know some scope of Guruji's work. I brought a vibrant photo for the altar. My friend Jenn, who had been inspired by BKS Iyengar's work some years ago, brought flowers. I knew of two people who would attend. With myself, that would be three. And that was auspicious enough for me. Leslie Freyberg, a long-time student of Mary Dunn and Patricia Walden, made a surprise appearance. I was honoured that she made the long journey on a winding country road just to be with us. Gwynneth Powell Sobejko with Leslie Freyberg at an event honouring Guruji at the Iyengar Yoga Institute of New York City Leslie, a national Iyengar Yoga Teacher of Sanskrit recitation, joyously accepted 7 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

8 my invitation to lead a chant. She chose Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya. (Om, I bow to Lord Vasudeva or Lord Krishna.) When I asked her why she chose this particular chant, she explained, "BKS Iyengar refers to this chant in chapter 17 of Light on Pranayama. Patricia Walden says it is one of his favourites. She had us chant it over and over upon hearing the news of Guruji's passing." That evening, two by two they came to Sticks and Stones Farm, and kept arriving until the room was filled. I know not from whence they came, word of mouth most say, but they came; young, old, men, women, experienced, and not. In the restorative class, I told them to relax their toes because Guruji said, "If your toes are tight, your brain is tight." I told them to keep their legs active so the brain could relax. And, to relax the tongue to relax the brain. I told them about a photo of Guruji in Adho Mukha Svanasana, with a timer between his feet. He wasn't timing himself in the pose, but measuring the time between his thoughts. I said that he prescribed Uttanasana every day for ten minutes in cases of depression. I told them that Supta Baddha Konasana was given for nearly every therapeutic practice. We began the commemorative practice facing the altar, as I called out the asanas: Tadasana (three minutes), Uttanasana, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Utthita Trikonasana, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Uttanasana, Tadasana (three minutes). For 30 minutes the collective energy of the room was quiet and focused. Then we sat in silence for five minutes, ending with Leslie leading us in the Sanskrit chant. I was inspired to share the teachings of BKS Iyengar's work with these mostly unsuspecting folks. It was in honour of Guruji that I hosted this commemorative practice - and for all my teachers who have guided me in Iyengar Yoga. As I bid farewell to Guruji, I offer the gift of launching an ongoing Iyengar Yoga class in Newtown, Connecticut. At the sanctuary of Sticks and Stones Farm three students will begin their study of the deep and expansive work of BKS Iyengar. And if only three students ever come, that will be enough! Om Shanti Gwynneth Powell Sobejko studied under Shirley Daventry French, Lauren Cox, and the Iyengar Yoga Centre Victoria teacher training committee, earning Intro/II certification. After teaching for seven years in Victoria, she and her husband Paul moved to North Vancouver (for the next seven years). For the past 18 months they, and their two children, Finn (8) and Klara (5), have relocated to Connecticut for Paul's work in fuel cell research and development, and to bring Iyengar Yoga to the Monroe/Newtown area of Southeastern Connecticut. 8 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

9 Beloved Guruji by Margot Kitchen (Calgary, AB) A colleague of mine, when asked, "Where would you be without yoga?" answered, without hesitation, "I'd be dead." At the time I felt the same. And now that I have faced life-threatening trauma, I know this to be absolutely true. In 2005 in the practice sessions at the Institute, Guruji was leaning on the trestler and talking to a group of us. "It's almost time for me to leave you, but I feel I haven't given all I need to give you." He lived another nine years, and, of course in 2005 he published Light On Life. For me, that was a crucial nine years. I know I'm not alone in feeling this. In the tumultuous world we live in, with all the war, disastrous climate changes, floods, and tornadoes, Guruji gave us tools to handle all with a modicum of equanimity. In the introduction to Light on Life, he writes, "To a yogi, freedom implies not being battered by the dualities of life; its ups and downs, its pleasures and sufferings. It implies equanimity and ultimately that there is an inner serene core of one's being that is never out of touch with the unchanging, eternal Infinite." Now more than ever, with Guruji's passing, we need to listen and take to heart the wisdom he imparted. As my husband and I age and face health challenges both with ourselves, and among our friends, and as we attend more and more life celebrations, I return to Guruji's words to help me find some peace and keep my gaze fixed on the inner goal. Now more than ever, with Guruji's passing, we need to listen and take to heart the wisdom he imparted. When originally thinking about writing some memories, I felt it's too soon. But then I thought, Would Guruji shrink from this just because it was uncomfortable? "Do your duty," came to mind. So, Guruji, I'll start, at least with a couple of fond memories. My memories go back to 1984 when he was in Edmonton and several of us were to teach in front of him. The class in the gym was divided into three. Liz Macleod and I were to tag teach in one of the groups. I was petrified!! Liz started, and before I had my turn Guruji had asked for a platform and he taught the whole group. At the time I thought teaching 100 people was amazing. (Now of course that's routine at RIMYI.) He was in his element, and I felt so incredibly humbled by his grasp of the subject. I was 9 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

10 hooked! In 1985 I joined Shirley's group to go to Pune for a Canadian Intensive: Marie Andrée, Marlene Mawhinney, and several other teachers (who would later become our senior teachers) were in the group - 28 in all if I remember correctly. What an experience! The intensives were three hours of teaching in the morning and then pranayama in the afternoon. In 1987 I again went to India and had great expectations this time. I had my month all plotted out and had even decided what I was going to learn! How naive! I have since learned that one needs have no expectations where India is concerned. Expectations just block your experience. You need to get out of your own way. So often the learning is off the mat and it's the whole experience of going to Pune, taking class, manoeuvering around India, that is so rich and teaches you so much about yourself. I understand why Guruji insisted that we have a certain number of trips to the source before training teachers or assessing. He was helping us mature and learn about ourselves - away from our familiar surroundings and normal routines. He softened, and in his eyes for an instant I saw such compassion and love. I could never have anticipated the events that occurred during the month of November in On the second day of class I was on my way to class in a rickshaw. It turned over and dragged me under it. I had many abrasions, a broken hand, and my knees had large wounds. After going to Naik Hospital, shepherded by Lois Steinberg, I knew I had to go back to the Institute - bandages and all! I had the great fortune of working one on one with Guruji for three weeks. He made me bend my knees and the wounds would split open and the bandages would be all bloody. Guruji would say, "Go home and put glycerin on them." At one point I was in tears and said, "I'm sorry, sir, but it's the pain." He softened, and in his eyes for an instant I saw such compassion and love. "I know!" And then the fierceness returned. "But how long do you want to go with stiff knees?" I would stand in front of the trestler holding on and squatting with dowels behind my knees and Guruji would stand on my back and bounce up and down. The blessing in all of this was that I would never have had such a close relationship with Guruji if not for the drunken rickshaw driver! 10 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

11 The crowd on the stairs grew from a couple of Australians to a large group wondering what this Canadian lady was undergoing and why the devil was she not going home? It never occurred to me to go home. I knew I was meant to be at the Institute with Guruji. The blessing in all of this was that I would never have had such a close relationship with Guruji if not for the drunken rickshaw driver! Over the next 30 years Guruji helped me sail the sometimes troubled waters of my life; sending practices for my heart, for Parkinson's disease for my husband, practices for various students when I was not sure how to help them. He always answered my letters, even to the last ones in How generous he was with his time, energy, and love. His letters always ended with, affectionately BKS Iyengar. Years ago the letters were handwritten, or if someone typed them, there would be additions in Guruji's hand. I treasure all his letters, but these most especially. I loved the man as a father, and like a father, he was a disciplinarian, quick to anger - and quick to forgive. Over the years I've felt his anger, and two minutes later he's laughing. The incident is past. He always said he was not directing his fierceness at the person, but at their behaviour. I will continue to love the man, and miss him more than I can express. And I will continue to ask his advice and know that his guidance and spirit are still present to help. In his words, "It is my profound hope that my end can be your beginning." Margot Kitchen has studied at RIMYI in Pune, India, many times with BKS Iyengar, Geeta, and Prashant, and has been certified by Guruji at the Senior Intermediate II Level. She is a senior assessor for IYAC and a past board member. Over the years Margot has written and produced over 115 television programs and her series with BKS Iyengar, Iyengar Yoga in the West, received a Canadian Cable Television Award. She also produced two videos with BKS Iyengar - The Art of Teaching, and The Healing Aspects of Asana. Margot now focuses on teacher training and yoga retreats in Mexico. Guruji - a Never-Ending Source of Inspiration by Leslie Hogya (Victoria, BC) Every day is another day to remember Guruji and his huge legacy to us. I have been to Pune many times. But one of the most memorable trips to Pune for me was in 2008 when Guruji was celebrating his 90th birthday. The yoga community in Mumbai helped organize an extravaganza of events. There were concerts, plays, Indian classical dance, kids demos, an art show and more. 11 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

12 After a day of feasting and celebrations, more than 300 of his students travelled through South India on buses to various historic temple sights. We went to Guruji's home village of Bellur in Karnakata and to saw the many projects realized through his generosity. Guruji at a temple in 2008 This photo was taken on that magical tour through South India; a beautiful informal moment as he watched us enjoy the beautiful carvings. I am more grateful than ever for the opportunities I had to study and work directly with him in Pune and various places in North America. (See article about how he helped me with a severe shoulder injury in the issue.) While we may no longer study directly with Guruji, the books, CDs, letters, interviews, Yoga Rahasya articles, eight volumes of Astadala Yoga Mala will be a 12 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

13 never-ending source of inspiration. Leslie (Int. Sen. I) has been teaching in Victoria since the early 70s and has been active in the Victoria Iyengar Yoga centre, and on the IYAC Board of Directors, since then. She has studied in Pune at RIMYI many times since her first trip in Her most recent trip was in December Leslie also serves as an assessor for IYAC. She has taught in the U.S., Thailand, Hong Kong, and most recently, in Mexico. Lessons in Letting Go, from BKS Iyengar by Eve Johnson (Vancouver, BC) In week and a bit that has passed since BKS Iyengar died, this has become my new favorite quote. And as each day passes, I am more grateful to him for 13 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

14 setting such a good example of a happy life and a majestic death. Yes, he could glower. Yes, he yelled in class. But he was not an angry man. He was impish. He took on his role as the traditional tough-love Indian teacher and played it to the hilt, impatient, frustrated by his students' inability to grasp immediately what he taught. But anyone who has read Basic Guidelines for Teachers of Yoga, a RIMYI publication from 2002, will see a different attitude: "After class, your homework is to understand why the student is not getting the asana. You have to reflect on their problems. Think and re-think. And then work on your own. This way you will find that the students improve as the quality of your practice in teaching improves. "Externally treat your students as students, but internally treat them as God-sent. You are learning by helping them. They make you understand and you must give them respect." He lived his own advice, endlessly, inventively finding new ways to transmit understanding. He created a body of work that was never static because he was always teaching new actions, new meditative pathways, new adaptations to take us so deeply into the poses that we would be able to connect to our true selves. He lived his own advice, endlessly, inventively finding new ways to transmit understanding. I have, by the way, my own picture of Guruji glowering; (but remember, this is a man interrupted at his work by an unknown student looking for a souvenir photo - and he didn't say no!) 14 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

15 A moment in the library at RIMYI, 2008 The longer he lived, the happier he seemed to be. And then came the majestic death: clarity until the end, and no sign that he had changed his mind from the days when he'd say, "when death comes I will welcome it." Death might be the ultimate opportunity to practice letting go, but Guruji also gave a much longer, more public lesson in perfecting the art of losing. Watch a video of him demonstrating his practice in his prime, anywhere from 20 to 80, and you will see how able he was, what astonishing poses he could do. Then gradually he let go, not of the practice, but of the asana work that was no longer possible for him. A 45-minute headstand with full variations became headstand at the wall, then headstand in the ropes, then headstand with the support of the trestler. Fully supported, he still did astonishing backbends. And he was present in each pose completely, no wavering of attention, no loss of awareness. His practice remained meditation in action, performed with the joy and gratitude of one who famously said, "The body is my temple, asanas are my prayers." As he aged, he let go of what he could no longer do, but always did as much as he could. He never gave up, never said, "I'm too old to practice." In his last years, he used an elevator to get to the practice room because he couldn't manage the stairs, but he was there every day. He always practiced with his students. He never hid his losses. He continued, day by day, to do as much as he 15 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

16 could, with humility and gratitude. As he aged, he let go of what he could no longer do, but always did as much as he could. I think about my own struggle with full arm balance, a pose I find both difficult and magical. I worked for so long to be able to kick up, and had a few glorious years of a reliable pose. Now it's gone again. I had a niggling elbow injury that made weight-bearing on a straight arm undesirable, so I stopped trying to kick up, and now I can't. Could it be that it's time for me to quit trying? To accept that I'll only do the full pose with a helper? Logically, there will be a last time for every pose. I have plenty of preparations I can work with, ways to practice that will keep me strong without needing to kick up. Could I let go of that pose with such grace? Start teaching arm balance without being able to demonstrate it? Could I be honest in saying: "this is not a pose I do any more?" If BKS Iyengar didn't magically escape death through the practice of yoga, then I won't either. If age diminished his extraordinary asana practice, then it will surely diminish mine. I will always be grateful for having found Guruji's work, this method of rigorous questioning, of growing inwardly through exploring the asanas. I suspect that as years go by I may be even more grateful for his lesson in how to consciously surrender to the reality of an aging body, while living happily, and aiming for a majestic death. Eve Johnson is Co-Editor of the IYAC Newsletter, a position she has held since it began publication. She began her Iyengar yoga studies with Wende Davis in She holds JI I certification, and teaches at Yoga on 7th in Vancouver, a studio she has co-directed since 200. She will be taking her second trip to Pune next June. This piece was first published in Eve's blog, Five-Minute Yoga: Friendly Advice for Growing a Yoga Practice. Remembering BKS Iyengar 16 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

17 Bruce Carruthers, Guruji and Maureen Carruthers in Vancouver, 1984 by Maureen Carruthers (Courtenay, BC) In 1977, during one three-month study and practice period at the RIMYI we had no days off and were in the presence of our teacher most of the time. At first we were with a small group of 8-12 students made up of people who came mostly long distances from around the world. At times the group would grow to approximately then go back to the small group size again. Our lessons began between 6:30 or 7 a.m. each day. The nourishment we had before coming was a cup of strong sweet tea with buffalo milk added. I would cycle to the Institute. As we entered the studio, Iyengar would be doing his practice in a corner of the room. We would start our own practice. Dawn was breaking and the atmosphere was calm, peaceful and silent. Iyengar took up very little space in both his being and the space that surrounded him. All this inwardness changed when he began to teach. With a loud commanding voice that filled the studio he would say, "All of you - arm balance." Or, "forward bend" or whatever asana he was going to teach first that morning. We would all become very alert and ready to receive and be guided in whatever we were going to learn that morning. He was a master and he taught as a master; gave all he had to give and expected us to do likewise. He was a master and he taught as a master; gave all he had to give and expected us to do likewise. In my experience it was as though as he gave his instruction and finer details he was opening doorways to hidden places in me. During that first visit to Pune in 17 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

18 1976 Iyengar turned me upside down, inside out and shook the living daylights out of me. It was like I was rough clay to be molded. He brought forth buried treasures and gifts of understanding that were deeply hidden inside me. I would not be the person I am today if I had not let this happen. It is obvious to me now that there is very little one can do in preparation except to know how to completely surrender to his presence and teaching and go with beginner's mind. Felicity Green, Guruji and Maurreen Carruthers We were deeply involved with uncovering and learning both in asana and pranayama classes. He was in the beginning stages of writing his book on pranayama and wanting his deep understanding and practice to be known to the world, particularly the medical scientific world. Iyengar the creative man brought forth a new and profound way to work with the asana and pranayama based on the lineage he inherited and his knowledge of life from the time he was a child. He is a Brahman Hindu and lived with the daily rituals of this way of life. No one practiced the asana in such detail and ever-growing understanding as Sri BKS Iyengar. He is not only a Master of Yoga but the originator of the form of asana and pranayama practice that the world knows today. He has given the world a precious gift, a new way of working with the body and mind that encompasses the depth and profound way of yoga. As we use this practice and follow the Iyengar Method we peel away the layers of the onion. Iyengar Yoga gives us a way of incorporating the eight limbs of yoga as written by Patanjali, in our daily practice and way of life, and of experiencing the union of body, mind and soul. I have dyslexia, and it has not always been a disadvantage in my life. In fact, one of the gifts dyslexia gives me is that I have a very strong sense of feeling; I have to feel something before I understand it, really feel it, and what it means in my 18 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

19 body. So when I was eventually taught by Iyengar, I understood his language very well. For example, in order to describe moving muscles and flesh under the skin, he would say, "I want you to bring the space to the place and the place to the space." Not to just be on the surface of the body but to go deeper and deeper. He would ask questions like, "Where is your little toe? There is a mind in that little toe." None of us know where the mind is, but he taught that it is everywhere within us. From that early teaching evolved my understanding of body-mind, which comes when one is actually in touch with feeling the place and being 'in' it at the same time. It's a sense of aliveness. Iyengar would ask questions as he was showing the movement and I felt like I had come home. Guruji with a gift book in Vancouver Maureen Carruthers has been a devoted student and teacher of Iyengar Yoga since the early 1970s. A gifted and intuitive teacher, she created, guided and nurtured the long-time and close-knit yoga community in Vancouver and shared her understanding of Guruji's work with other Canadian teachers and students. Along with her husband Dr. Bruce Carruthers and a few other early students, she 19 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

20 Tribute to Sri BKS. Iyengar started the BKS Iyengar Yoga Association in BC (possibly the earliest such association in N. America). Maureen has just completed a memoir of her life in yoga and her deep and long relationship with BKS Iyengar. This is an excerpt from that memoir. Thank You Beloved Guruji By Ingelise Nherlan (West Vancouver, BC) Jutta Wiedeman, Maureen Carruthers, Guruji, Donald Moyer, Ingelise and Barbara Landsberg, San Fransisco, 1976 I first met Guruji at a week-long workshop in San Francisco in I was 36; Guruji 57. How time flies. I remember as if it were yesterday being in the first class when Guruji walked in: the electrifying energy, the clarity of instruction. Study of the asanas took on a deeper meaning. Looking back was unthinkable, impossible. This was IT. This visit to San Francisco was one of the few times I saw Guruji in Western clothing, his cardigan casually around his shoulders. He wore his hair short and we did not then recite the invocation. He was deeply respectful of Western ways. 20 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

21 It was later, when so many of us travelled to RIMYI, that Guruji changed both hair and clothing to Indian ways. I was in class when he said: "I never asked you to call me Guruji." For myself, it took a while until one day after class it suddenly became the most natural gesture of gratitude and respect to kneel down and touch his feet. I wondered why, until then, I had felt it a strange thing to do. Within a split second it was unthinkable not to express gratitude in that deep way. Once during a class in Pune, he said: "In this lifetime I won't have time to teach the people in villages to improve their digestion so as to absorb better the nutrients of what little food they have. I will come back to do that. I have two more lifetimes to take. I know that." Guruji, Ingelise Nherlan and Bruce Carruthers Are all we students of Guruji's not blessed? Sometimes I pinch myself for the luck I have had in finding Guruji. I think Guruji's way of teaching us all falls into the category of tough love. That is hard work, especially for the one who administers it, and that is compassion. Sri BKS Iyengar began his life in difficult circumstances. Indeed most of his life was challenge after challenge. It is said that: "an opportunity not made use of is the greatest of wastes." Guruji did not waste any "hardship-challenges" and turned them all into opportunities. The inspiration from that alone made him the teacher we, his students, shall never forget. Guruji's wife Ramamani passed away much too early. Guruji wrote: "We adored each other." Their children and family gathered around. They stayed together 21 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

22 and carried on. Not as if nothing had happened. They just carried on. Now Guruji has passed on and we all must all follow the example. We, his yoga family will do that. "Let my end be your beginning" Guruji has asked of us. That is our opportunity to say: Thank you beloved Guruji. Ingelise Nherlan holds a Sr. Int. teaching certificate, and has studied at RIMYI for several month-long visits. (Her last in the summer of 2010.) In the late 1970s, Ingelise introduced Iyengar Yoga to her native Denmark with a series of week-long workshops every summer, for four years. She has since taught workshops across Canada, developed new teachers through her Room for Yoga Teacher Training Program, and contributed to IYAC as an Assessor. Memories, Dreams, Reflections by Shirley Daventry French (Victoria, BC) Since learning of the death of Guruji, BKS Iyengar, on August 20th, I have experienced a tumult of memories, dreams and reflections as I contemplate my loss and his legacy. Memories, Dreams, Reflections is the title of a book by Carl Jung; required reading in a course I attended at Yasodhara Ashram almost 40 years ago, and remains on my bookshelf. Jung was a penetrating thinker. Profoundly moved by his personal revelations, I was inspired by his insight and in awe at the power of his mind. In 1984 I had the additional honour to welcome Guruji as a guest in my home, to sit with him around a dining table and be nourished by a constant flow of ideas and insights. The exemplary life and work of BKS Iyengar inspire me in a similar manner with the added bonus that my learning from Guruji is not restricted to his writings or other people's accounts of his life and times. I have been fortunate to learn from him directly, to listen in person to many discourses, planned and impromptu. In 1984 I had the additional honour to welcome Guruji as a guest in my home, to sit with him around a dining table and be nourished by a constant flow of ideas and insights. A walk down to the waterfront park near my home ended with an impromptu yoga lesson on a rock overlooking the beach. This was Guruji's practical response to a question from me. 22 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

23 Guruji was not a renunciate although he was offered sannyas by Swami Sivananda. He followed the path of the householder, and relished this role while never letting it distract from the goal of self-discovery. He taught that the opportunities to learn are always there, and learning need never stop. During a course he taught on his 85th birthday, he told us that yoga sadhana is bereft of mistakes but not the sadhaka. This mortal body is a spiritual tool. The journey of yoga is a search for the true self, purusha or atman which is our constant companion from birth to death. Guruji was a consummate Master of Yoga, and such mastery comes from regular intense practice with the ego remaining firmly in its place. Such practice will spill over into all aspects of our life. The ego is always there, ready and waiting to assert itself and take the lead if given a chance, rather than playing its subsidiary role of serving the Self. At the beginning of 1976 I took three months out of a busy life to live in an Ashram where I could learn more about yoga and put down deeper roots in its practice. At the end of this year, I had my first experience of asana and pranayama in the tradition of Mr. Iyengar. These classes were taught by Norma Hodge who was trained in the Iyengar method and had studied with Guruji in Pune. Thanks to Norma, three years later I was a student in an Intensive course at the Institute taught by Guruji himself! Guruji was a consummate Master of Yoga, and such mastery comes from regular intense practice with the ego remaining firmly in its place. Such practice will spill over into all aspects of our life. Each and every class with Guruji then and ever after was intense. He knew no other way. He was intolerant of anything less than maximum effort. When corrected or adjusted by him, once he was satisfied we were on the right track and before moving on to another student he would insist that we sustain whatever effort he had demanded of us "any amount" and "to the maximum!" One day in the library, Guruji was discussing different kinds of aspirants and reminded us that the goal is nearer for those who are more vigorous in their practice and far away for those who approach it casually (sutra I.21). He told us that there are three levels of aspirant: mild, moderate and intense. Then he added: "I am intensely intense." And not one person in that room doubted the truth of that statement. Guruji's teaching was physically demanding, emotionally challenging and spiritually awakening! He told us that there are three levels of aspirant: 23 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

24 mild, moderate and intense. Then he added: "I am intensely intense." And not one person in that room doubted the truth of that statement. Guruji has left his physical body, and in company with his pupils worldwide, I mourn the loss of a very great man and teacher whom I not only respected for the brilliance of his mind, his intelligence, his unparalleled teaching; but with whom I was fortunate to have some personal contact. Iyengar the man and Iyengar the teacher were inseparable. His example and these teachings remain undiminished and available to all of us. My sadness is cloaked in profound gratitude for a vast body of work, the tools of spiritual practice and the training in their use. Guruji prepared us well for his departure from this earthly life. The learning continues. Shirley Daventry-French is the founder of the Iyengar Yoga Centre of Victoria and a direct student of BKS Iyengar. Since 1979 when she first travelled to his Institute in Pune, she has studied with him regularly in India, North America and Europe. Shirley has been teaching yoga for more than 40 years in Victoria and internationally, and is an advisor to the board of the Iyengar Yoga Association of Canada. 24 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

25 Photo courtesy of Ingelise Nherlan My Close Encounter with Guruji by Drew Perry As the new group of foreign students was registering for classes at RIMYI in the fall of 2007, Guruji walked into the room. Many of the long-time, and even some first-time students went over to pay their respects. Some clasped their hands in namaskarasana and bowed their heads; others knelt down, bowed and touched the hem of his robe. I held back. While I had enormous respect for him, to my western mind the act of bowing down to another person seemed a little extreme. In the following days, we would see him in his corner of the practice hall doing incredible poses with the longest holds. Students glanced in his direction but dared not get too close, unless they had been coming to Pune for years. Surrounded by the plaques and awards of his life's work, and the original photos of Light on Yoga on the walls, the institute took on the aura of a temple. I had signed up to observe the afternoon medical classes, which Geetaji normally 25 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

26 conducted. The medical classes are full and seemingly chaotic, like a 70-ring circus. A few of us observed together and took notes, sitting on the steps to the upper hall where we had been assigned. One day, a group was using the upper hall and a senior teacher told us to go into the main hall and observe from along the windows, sitting among the benches and other props. So for the next few days I continued to go into the practice hall and observe from within the room rather than return to my assigned place on the steps. No one noticed, or if they did, no one said anything about my continued presence. I held back. While I had enormous respect for him, to my western mind the act of bowing down to another person seemed a little extreme. One day, Geetaji did not appear, and Guruji took her place. He moved from student to student around the room, advising and adjusting, admonishing and correcting. He came over to work with a student right in front of where I was sitting; two feet away. He stopped and looked straight at me with those extraordinary eyes and world-class eyebrows. He was wearing robes of white and gold and purple - the colours of royalty. He looked at me for a long time without saying anything. I thought he must be wondering, "Who is this person I've never seen before? And, why is he in this room when he shouldn't be?" I looked back into those eyes, frozen in my place like a prey, afraid that he would kick me out because I was observing from the wrong place. After several long seconds (at least two full seconds, but possibly 20 - time had stopped) he looked away and turned his attention to the student who was tied up in belts on the floor (while I was equally tied up - in knots). I waited until he had moved on to another medical student and then quietly packed up my notebook and tiptoed out of the room, back to my place on the steps. As I left, I regretted not having the presence of mind to have bowed down to him and touched the hem of his royal robes, showing him the deepest respect that I felt. And I regret that inaction even more now that there will never be that opportunity again. The opportunity gone, I am even more committed to showing my deepest respect through my practice, my teaching, and my work with IYAC. No holding back. Drew Perry is currently President of IYAC/ACYI. He has also served as Treasurer. Drew has continued to explore the depth of Iyengar yoga through frequent 26 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM

27 workshops with many of the senior North American teachers and with Stephanie Quirk from Pune, India. He holds JI II Certification, and has been a partner in Winnipeg'sYoga North studio for 12 years. AIYAC News/les nouvelle de l'acyi Submission Guidelines Do you have a memory of BKS Iyengar? Words of his that particularly inspire you? Please send them for a continuing feature of remembrance and appreciation for Guruji. As ever, we welcome feedback, IYAC news, updates, articles, workshop reviews, interviews, recipes, and RIMYI practice sequences, (in either of our official languages). Next issue - November 2014 Submission deadline - November 1 SEND TO: kwoodland@telus.net * Please keep submissions to 500 words or less. * Single space between lines, and after periods. * Please include your name, and a brief bio. * We welcome photos (jpeg format). * Please identify subjects of photos. This newsletter is published four times a year, in January, April, September and November. We currently do not have a classified section. Forward This was sent to perry4@mts.net by info@iyengaryogacanada.com Update Profile/ Address Rapid removal with SafeUnsubscribe Privacy Policy. Iyengar Yoga Association of Canada 50 Cambridge Street Victoria BC V8V 4A8 Canada 27 of 27 10/7/14 10:50 AM