Backbends Quote by B.K.S. Iyengar
“I also say with backbends, you have to be cautiously bold. Not carelessly bold. You have to descend to the dictation of the spine. You cannot command from the brain to do the poses. As you play with a child, guarding the child from injuries, similarly you have to play in backbends, guarding your spine.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Light on Yoga, 1966
Backbends require cautious boldness, respecting the spine’s limits while allowing growth, similar to protecting a child.
In simple terms: Be bold yet careful in yoga poses.
Move with mindful strength.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Yoga class
- personal practice
- rehabilitation sessions
- teaching beginners
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you gauge safe limits?
- What signals indicate you’re pushing too far?
Over‑exertion can cause injury.