In this chapter, BKS Iyengar talks about the different art forms recognized in the ancient Indian texts, yoga being one of them. He describes the qualities necessary to practice and pursue any art: good health, courage, shrewdness, fearlessness, focus and sincerity. Of course, yoga bestows all of these qualities on the practitioner.
He goes on to say:
“The study of yoga helps to groom the artist by culturing the intellect and consciousness. The student of any art form must cultivate the qualities of integrity, good health, courage, shrewdness, fearlessness, focus and sincerity. The practice of art requires acumen, creativity, imagination as well as the ability to conceptualise and deliver a physical expression of that imagination, organization, discipline, a composed mind, a pleasing personality and self-awareness. Yoga bestows all of this on a practitioner. An artist, therefore, benefits immensely by the practice of yoga. “
The famous violinist, Yehudi Menuhin, is an example of how an artist can benefit from the practice of yoga. Mr. Menuhin met and eventually employed Mr. Iyengar to work with him to keep his body supple and to give him the stamina to maintain the rigors demanded by his art. Menuhin even gave Iyengar a watch with the inscription on it: “To my best violin teacher, BKS Iyengar“. You can read the article here.
In this chapter Iyengar uses Virabhadrasana I and III to help us cultivate the qualities of valor, prowess, courage and ferocity.
Virabhadrasana I
Virabhadrasana II
If you’d like to read this chapter, you can find it here.