The term 'yoga' originates from Sanskrit and means to connect, to unite. It refers to the connection between body and mind. Uniting the shape of the outer body in different poses (asanas) with the inner state and mindset of the practitioner. The common objective of different yoga styles is oneness and self-awareness. In the words of Patañjali, it means to bring the fluctuations of the mind to rest: yogas citta vritti nirodhah.

Yoga is not only a system of practical exercises, but also an over 5000-year-old Indian philosophy. However, there is a clear distinction to be made between the yoga referred to in ancient philosophical texts and the form of exercise that is widely practiced today. The founder of modern yoga is Krishnamacharya, who began teaching in India in the 20th century. His students, including B.K.S. Iyengar, further developed yoga and later introduced it to students in different parts of the world.

B.K.S. Iyengar is considered one of the most influential teachers of modern yoga. He has developed a unique method that particularly emphasizes precise body alignment. In addition, Iyengar experimented with various props to support and at the same time deepen the asanas practice (yoga postures). Through his precise instructions, he enabled people of all ages and conditions to experience the effects of yoga. His relentless practice and shared learning with his students, experimentation and sincere introspection helped Iyengar Yoga to develop and become internationally known.