Is yoga supposed to feel relaxing? Not always. This reflection explores the balance between effort and ease, the difference between helpful discomfort and harmful strain, and why perfection in asana is less about achieving a shape and more about practicing with intelligence, awareness, and honesty.

Chronic back pain, arthritis, scoliosis — it’s been a journey! Then I found Iyengar Yoga. With props, precise alignment, and mindful sequencing, it didn’t just strengthen my body — it helped me move with confidence and ease. Curious to learn more?

A while ago, I looked at a photo from my practice and was startled to see how clearly my scoliosis showed itself. The asymmetry was undeniable — and I’ll admit, my first reaction was a mix of shock and fear. Even after years of improvement, that old worry surfaced: What if I’m slipping backward? What if I undo all the healing I’ve worked so hard for?

Debilitating lower back pain is what led me to Iyengar Yoga. For a decade, I tried everything from physiotherapy to surgery, and still felt like I wasn’t able to access the root of the issue. It wasn’t until I stepped into my first Iyengar Yoga class that something shifted—literally and figuratively.