From Workplace Wellness to a Committed Practice
Wellness has always been a part of our company’s culture, and it was introduced by our president and CEO. Long before structured yoga classes, we embraced well-being through Qi Gong, healthy food, and occasional yoga during sales conferences and company events. I vividly remember our retreat in Balesin, where our CEO led yoga sessions, offering moments of relaxation and rejuvenation.
In August 2024, our company officially launched Iyengar yoga classes—structured sessions three times a week, led by a certified instructor. The company provides all necessary yoga props, including belts, blocks, and mats. What more could you ask for?
From the first session, I was amazed by the scientific approach of Iyengar yoga. Unlike other styles, it emphasizes alignment, precision, and progression, using props to refine posture and deepen stretches safely. The idea that I could modify a pose rather than force myself into the “final” position intrigued me. This curiosity quickly turned into dedication.
I also realized yoga was not new to me. My early exposure to yoga played a role in my journey. My father incorporated the eight limbs of yoga, including asanas, as part of the discipline he instilled in us. Back then, I didn’t analyze the poses—I just followed them, believing in their holistic benefits. Now, through Iyengar yoga’s structured techniques, I am deepening my understanding in ways I never imagined.
Iyengar Yoga: Structure, Precision & Growth
Through practice, I’ve come to appreciate that Iyengar yoga is built on alignment, body awareness, and progressive improvement. Unlike my childhood experience, where I mimicked poses, this practice focuses on proper technique. Yoga props such as belts and blocks make it accessible to all flexibility levels, allowing for safe advancement.
My Progress in Yoga Poses
When I first started, I couldn’t even reach my toes in Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend). Now, I can place my palms underneath my feet. This transformation isn’t just about flexibility—it’s a sign of better hamstring mobility, spinal flexibility, and circulation.
Other noticeable improvements:
- Balance – I struggled to hold Vrksasana (Tree Pose) without wobbling. Now, I’m steadier.
- Headstand Progression – I started Sirsasana (Headstand) using a wall for support. Through guidance, I learned that core strength is essential.
- Refined Bending & Stretching Techniques – Understanding proper technique has helped prevent strain.
Flexibility, Aging, and Everyday Benefits
As children, flexibility comes naturally, but as we age, muscle stiffness sets in, restricting movement. This is where Iyengar yoga plays a crucial role:
- Hamstring stretches improve leg mobility, which we often neglect over time.
- Shoulder blade exercises counteract tension and poor posture from desk work.
- Twisting poses support digestion and, surprisingly, enhance my golf game.
How Yoga Benefits My Golf Game
As a golfer, I’ve noticed that Iyengar yoga has directly improved my performance, flexibility, and focus.
- Better Flexibility for a Stronger Swing
- Parivrtta Trikonasana (Revolved Triangle Pose) and Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes Pose) increase spinal mobility.
- Core Strength for Stability
- Plank variations and balancing poses strengthen the core, leading to better control on the course.
- Mental Focus & Patience
- Holding poses teaches patience and mindfulness, both crucial for golf.
- Breathwork techniques help me stay calm under pressure.
The Workplace Benefits of Yoga
- Stress Reduction & Mental Clarity
After long meetings and deadlines, yoga relieves stress and improves emotional resilience. The focus on breathwork and alignment promotes relaxation and mental clarity. - Improved Focus & Work Efficiency
Yoga enhances cognitive function by improving oxygen flow to the brain. Holding poses requires discipline and presence, skills that translate into better focus at work. - Better Sleep for Peak Performance
Yoga has improved my deep sleep, increasing my average from 40 minutes to over an hour. Better sleep leads to:- Higher energy levels
- Sharper decision-making
- Reduced fatigue throughout the day
- Physical Health & Injury Prevention
Sitting for long hours causes stiffness and poor posture. Iyengar yoga counters these effects by strengthening the core, increasing mobility, and improving spinal health. - Team Bonding & Workplace Morale
Yoga isn’t just a personal practice—it’s a team-building activity. Practicing together fosters support, camaraderie, and a positive work culture.
A Yoga Class for All Levels
One of the things I love about our company’s Iyengar yoga sessions is their inclusive nature:
- Modifications allow beginners to participate without strain.
- Advanced practitioners deepen their postures.
- No one is left behind—everyone progresses at their own pace.
Gratitude for the Workplace Yoga Initiative
I feel incredibly grateful that our company has embraced Iyengar yoga as part of its employee wellness program. What I once saw as simple stretching has revealed itself as a science-backed discipline focused on alignment, progression, and overall well-being.
For anyone considering yoga, my advice is simple: start where you are, embrace the process, and let the journey unfold.
Elevate Workplace Wellness with Iyengar Yoga
Discover how Iyengar yoga can enhance focus, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being in the workplace. At John Clements Consultants, we champion holistic employee wellness as part of building high-performing teams.
Ready to integrate wellness into your workplace? Contact us today to learn more!
