Anand Sagar (Sharat Arora) was born in 1953 and discovered Yoga in 1978. He went through intensive, full-time training for over six years with BKS Iyengar at the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Institute in Pune and assisted the Iyengars in all levels of Asana classes. However, more significant in his development as a practitioner and teacher was his involvement in the daily therapy sessions, serving countless patients. His fusion of this experience, with his extensive study of Western medicine, greatly influenced his continually-evolving Yoga technique and sharpened his unique Yoga therapy skills.

During this time of his growth and transformation, Sharat was living in a Buddhist community and became interested in meditation, particularly Vipassana. With this added insight, Sharat made a breakthrough in understanding what Yoga techniques were meant to bring about in himself and others. He was further inspired by the teachings of J.Krisnamurti and later by HWL Poonja (the linage of Ramanamaharishi), leading to a more holistic practice and Yogic life. Sharat's clear and precise instructions, constant and detailed attentiveness, focus on providing students with the tools to practice and explore independently, and therapeutic knowledge for treating ailments and injuries, are combined with a philosophical depth that makes his instruction unique. Sharat speaks French, German and English fluently and has lived and traveled extensively in Europe.

"Postures and breathing of Hatha Yoga practices are there to bring about balance between Ha (Sun) and Tha (Moon), so that blockages are removed and Prana, the life force, is able to flow everywhere equally."
Sharat Arora

       

photographer: 7sensesphoto

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The Centre is dedicated to the teachings of Yogacharya BKS Iyengar, who is recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on Hatha Yoga. At the Centre, we aim to create an inspiring environment for learning and practicing, as well as to provide a meeting point for the community to exchange teachings and ideas, thus maintaining Guruji's work vibrant and pure. In giving particular attention towards the usage of props, the Centre has succeeded in incorporating every prop of the Iyengar method, giving a limitless and diverse opportunity for each practitioner to discover a deeper understanding of Hatha Yoga.

In Hatha Yoga, the body is used as a tool to modify consciousness and to still the mind of disturbances. Iyengar discovered that unless alignment was given full and detailed attention, the desired result could not be achieved. Thus, the teachings involve precise physical postures and breathing techniques, leading to harmony in both body and mind.

"Peace in the body brings poise to the mind."
BKS Iyengar