In the rigorous, balanced yoga poses, weak parts are strengthened and stiff areas are stretched, thus awakening and realigning the whole body. As the body moves into better alignment, less muscular work is required and relaxation occurs naturally. The essence of Iyengar Yoga is in the execution of the poses, not the poses themselves. Emphasis on precision, bodily alignment, strength and flexibility distinguish this system from other yoga systems. The awareness gained leads to control over mind and body and reduction of stress and anxiety.
Classes end with a deep, guided relaxation.
She has served on the Board of Trustees of the Southern California and National Iyengar Yoga Associations, as an assessor for Iyengar Yoga Certification, on the staff of the 3-year Yoga Training program of the Iyengar Yoga Institute of Los Angeles, chaired the 2nd North American Iyengar Yoga Convention in 1990, and conducts workshops in other states. Bonnie holds a Senior Intermediate Iyengar Teaching Credential. Valerie Read has studied yoga with Bonnie since 1975, began teaching in 1980 and received an Introductory Iyengar Teaching Credential in 1988. She served on the Board of Trustees of the Iyengar Yoga Association of Southern California, and is active in the Scripps College Alumnae Association, teaching yoga annually at Scripps Summer Camp. Valerie has taught at the Glendale YWCA since the mid 1980s.