Significant teachers and their influence

Swami Sivananda (1887–1963)

Influence: A visionary Indian saint and founder of the Divine Life Society (Rishikesh, 1936), Swami Sivananda bridged ancient yoga traditions with modern accessibility. Originally a physician, he turned to spiritual service, inspiring a global revival of yoga as a path of balanced living.
Key Principles: Sivananda’s “Five Points of Yoga” define his integrated system—proper exercise (asana), breath (pranayama), relaxation (savasana), diet (vegetarianism), and positive thinking (Vedanta). His synthesis of Hatha, Raja, Bhakti, Karma, and Jnana Yoga promotes harmony of body, mind, and spirit.
Recommended Reading: Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (Commentary); The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga (inspired by his teachings).

B.K.S. Iyengar & the Chanchanis / Usha Devi Lineage

Influence: A student of Krishnamacharya, B.K.S. Iyengar (1918–2014) founded Iyengar Yoga, a system emphasising alignment, precision, and therapeutic use of props. His students, including the Chanchanis and Usha Devi, carry forward his disciplined yet compassionate approach.
Key Principles: Focus on structure and alignment through mindful sequencing and use of props; accessibility for all bodies; and yoga as a union of physical discipline, concentration, and inner awareness. His teaching integrates philosophy with practical anatomy.
Recommended Reading: Light on Yoga; Light on Pranayama; Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.

Swami Vidyanand – Transformational Yoga

Influence: Founder of Transformational Yoga®, Swami Vidyanand draws from Sri Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga to offer a modern, holistic system for self-realisation. His work unites ancient yogic wisdom with accessible methods for spiritual growth.
Key Principles: Transformation through all layers of being—body, breath, mind, heart, and soul—using asana, pranayama, mantra, meditation, and chakra awareness. His approach emphasises direct experience, inner evolution, and living yoga as daily awareness.
Recommended Reading: Basic Transformational Yoga; Self-Transformation through Transformational Yoga; TIME Meditation.

Mindfulness and Compassion Training UK

Influence: Blending contemplative traditions with scientific psychology, Mindfulness and Compassion Training UK integrates awareness and kindness as foundations for transformation. Their work complements yogic practice by linking ancient wisdom with modern understanding of the mind.
Key Principles: Presence through experiential learning; kind awareness; trauma-sensitive teaching; and self-care as the root of service. Their framework mirrors yogic principles such as Ahimsa, Svadhyaya, and Dhyana, deepening emotional intelligence and embodiment.
Recommended Reading: Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Finding Peace in a Frantic World – Mark Williams & Danny Penman; Self-Compassion – Kristin Neff; The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion – Christopher Germer.

David Kiel – Progressive Ashtanga & Rocket Yoga

Influence: A senior student of Larry Schultz (creator of Rocket Yoga), David Kyle evolved the Progressive Ashtanga method—an adaptive, anatomy-informed approach to Ashtanga Vinyasa that honours individual structure and function.
Key Principles: Breath-led movement; functional anatomy over rigid form; creativity within structure; and intelligent sequencing for safe, progressive practice. His teaching encourages curiosity, self-awareness, and accessible strength.
Recommended Reading: Rocket Yoga: Your Guide to Progressive Ashtanga Vinyasa (2023); Progressive Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training Manual; Functional Anatomy of Yoga – David Keil.

Nikki Slade – Voice of the Heart & Bhakti Yoga

Influence: A pioneer of Kirtan and Bhakti Yoga in the UK, Nikki Slade has brought the devotional practice of sacred chanting to thousands through her leadership trainings and retreats. Her work unites music, mantra, and spiritual awakening.
Key Principles: The voice as a path to liberation; devotion over performance; community (sangha) and service through sound; and transformation via vibration and heartfelt expression. She teaches Bhakti as the living practice of love, gratitude, and unity.
Recommended Reading: The Healing Power of Chanting: Kirtan Practice for Inner Peace and Liberation – Nikki Slade; The Miracle of Mindfulness – Thich Nhat Hanh (supportive text on mindful presence).