Approach Quote by B.K.S. Iyengar
“Do not allow past experiences to be imprinted on your mind. Perform asanas each time with a fresh mind and with a fresh approach. If you are repeating what you did before, you are living in the memory, so you are living in the past. That means you don't want to proceed beyond the experience of the past. Retaining that memory is saying, 'Yesterday I did it like that.' When I ask, 'Is there anything new from what I did yesterday?' then there is progress. Am I going forward or am I going backward? Then you understand how to create dynamism in a static asana.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Light on Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar, 1966
The quote warns against letting past habits dominate present practice; each yoga pose should be approached with a fresh, open mind to foster growth.
In simple terms: Avoid repeating old patterns; stay present and open.
Key Takeaway
Embrace new perspective each session.
Themes
mindfulness
growth
practice
change
self‑awareness
Mood
calm
focused
inspired
Type
instructional
philosophical
When to use this quote
- daily yoga
- teaching sessions
- personal development
- rehab exercises
Key Concepts
Yoga philosophy
habit formation
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you notice when you’re acting from memory?
- What fresh intention can you set for today’s practice?
A Different Perspective
Progress stalls if you cling to past patterns without adaptation.
