Iyengar yoga

Compare a direct big-toe hold with a shallow belt-assisted fold. The hands meet the toes in one form and hold the belt in the other. The depth of the fold and the distance the arms must reach are different.

Compare hands around the upper knee with a handhold behind the back. These arm arrangements are different even when the legs look similar. Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā 2.17 describes the seated base without prescribing the behind-back arm bind.

Keep the belt loose enough to avoid pulling. Release it for pain, tingling or numbness.

Compare arms alongside the body with palms beside the chest. Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā 2.40 mentions palms on the ground near the chest and lifted legs. It gives no A/B letters and does not determine every detail of either present-day image.

The block supports the palm of the lower hand, reducing the reach required. Keep both feet grounded and do not force the knees. This support is a contemporary adaptation.

A firm cushion supports both knees; the heels rest on the mat. Choose a comfortable height without pressure. The older description of Savasana does not specify this knee support.

Do not force the knees or ankles. Keep the head comfortable and the airway clear. Stop for pain, numbness or restricted breathing. Seek individual advice if kneeling is unsuitable.

Keep the block stable on the mat, with no leg underneath it. Do not force the knees or ankles. Leave for pain, tingling or numbness and seek individual advice if kneeling is unsuitable.

Keep the lifted foot clear of the knee joint and do not force the hip to open. Keep a hand support if balance is uncertain, and step down before control is lost. Stop for pain or dizziness. An injury or balance problem needs individual assessment.

Do not use the belt to pull the leg closer. Keep the head and neck comfortable, lower the leg if needed, and stop for pain, tingling or numbness.