Discovering the Joy of Iyengar Yoga: My Journey and Insights

Hello there! I’m Nikki Costello, and it’s fantastic to connect with you. As a new teacher on Glo and a passionate yoga practitioner for 27 years, I’m excited to share my journey with you.

My Yoga Journey: From Student to Teacher

My initial foray into yoga was filled with excitement. The challenges, the intensity, and the purifying sweat all fueled my enthusiasm. I felt a rush of joy as I noticed remarkable changes in my body, particularly after recovering from knee surgery. This personal transformation sparked a newfound passion for life and naturally guided me toward teaching yoga. I was fortunate to discover a clear, inspired, and purposeful path along the way.

When I encountered Iyengar Yoga, something magical clicked. I wanted to delve deeper. It wasn’t enough for me to simply practice; I craved to understand the intricacies—the hows and whys—of yoga. My curiosity extended beyond the physical, encompassing emotional, intellectual, and spiritual realms.

Why I Chose Iyengar Yoga: Three Compelling Reasons

Let me share three reasons why Iyengar Yoga has become my chosen practice and teaching method. I hope my insights encourage you to explore this transformative path for yourself.

1. Embrace Self-Inquiry

Iyengar Yoga ignites a thirst for knowledge and exploration, while simultaneously guiding us on a journey of self-discovery.

As a beginner, it’s easy to feel that progress takes ages. While deepening your practice can indeed be a long-term endeavor, I’ve seen both in my own journey and in my students that significant changes can happen rapidly. This is thanks to the intelligent design of Iyengar Yoga, which simplifies complex concepts into accessible practices, allowing both body and mind to evolve together.

2. Build Community Connections

At the heart of Iyengar Yoga lies a strong teacher-student bond that develops and thrives over many years.

As a student, I felt embraced by a wise, generous, and deeply committed community. I was inspired by those who had dedicated decades to their practice. Observing practitioners of all ages and abilities not only highlighted the physical benefits—like enhanced strength and graceful movement—but also showcased the ongoing potential for personal growth and well-being. This supportive environment enabled me to ask questions, seek guidance, and progress with confidence.

3. Cultivate Right Action

Iyengar Yoga serves as a practical framework for living a fully awakened life.

Through this practice, I’ve learned how to care for myself throughout various phases of life. It has nurtured qualities like perseverance, courage, compassion, kindness, humility, and vulnerability. Rather than just a theoretical exercise, yoga philosophy becomes a living discipline. Through consistent practice, we can cultivate positive behaviors that empower us to take meaningful action in the world.

The Impact of Iyengar Yoga on My Life

The journey through Iyengar Yoga has been incredibly enriching. Each class is not just about physical postures but an invitation to connect more deeply with ourselves and others. The method teaches us that even the smallest adjustments can lead to profound shifts in our experience, both on and off the mat.

Every time I step onto the mat, I’m reminded of the beauty of the process. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progression. With each session, I discover something new—not just about yoga, but about my own limits and possibilities.

Encouragement for Your Yoga Journey

If you’re considering yoga or looking for a new approach, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Iyengar Yoga a try. It’s a practice that not only enhances physical health but also fosters a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around us.

Whether you’re seeking relief from stress, wanting to improve your flexibility, or simply exploring a new avenue of self-discovery, Iyengar Yoga offers valuable tools to support your journey. The sense of community, the emphasis on inquiry, and the focus on actionable wisdom create a nurturing environment for growth.

Conclusion: Start Your Iyengar Yoga Journey Today

In conclusion, Iyengar Yoga has been a transformative force in my life, one that I am eager to share with you. As you embark on your own yoga journey, remember that each step is an opportunity for learning and connection. Embrace the process, and you might just find the joy and insights that come with it.

Thank you for allowing me to share my experience with you. I hope to see you on the mat soon!