From its intriguing name to its profound effects, Yoga Kurunta offers a fascinating approach to yoga practice. As Geeta Iyengar beautifully explains in “Yoga: A Gem for Women,” “Kurunta is a puppet, a doll made of wood… Here the puppeteer and the puppet are one, performing their own puppet-show.” This metaphor perfectly captures the unique relationship between practitioner and prop in this transformative practice.
The term “Kurunta” derives from Sanskrit, meaning “puppet,” highlighting the unique nature of this practice where practitioners use ropes to guide and support their bodies through various asanas. While often associated with B.K.S. Iyengar’s innovative approach to yoga, the practice has evolved to become an invaluable tool for practitioners of all levels. The concept emerged from a deep understanding of how proper support can enhance and deepen yoga practice.
Performing yogasanas with rope support offers numerous advantages, as Geeta Iyengar emphasizes. Difficult asanas become more accessible, and practitioners can work with greater precision and less risk of injury. The method is particularly valuable for women who carry extra weight in the thighs, buttocks, or stomach region, and those who have experienced physical changes after childbirth. The rope support allows these practitioners to experience poses fully while building strength and confidence.
The setup for Yoga Kurunta requires careful attention to detail. A strong rope, approximately 16-18 feet long and one inch thick, is mounted on secure points about 2-2½ feet apart. The mounting height should allow practitioners to just reach the ropes when standing on tiptoes. This precise setup ensures safety and optimal benefit from the practice.
The effects of Yoga Kurunta are comprehensive and profound. As Geeta Iyengar notes, “Due to the rope movement the spine becomes supple and even difficult asanas can be done easily and safely. No jerking is felt, and a sense of direction is developed by regular practice.” This gentle yet effective approach makes it particularly valuable for those with conditions such as slipped discs, back pain, shoulder issues, and general stiffness.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Yoga Kurunta is its therapeutic value. These asanas are inherently safe because the rope support eliminates jarring movements on the spinal vertebrae. This makes the practice accessible to those recovering from injuries, working with chronic conditions, or simply seeking to deepen their practice with proper support and alignment.
The benefits extend beyond the physical realm. According to Geeta Iyengar, “By the practice of Yoga Kurunta one gains agility, lightness of the body, speed in movements, and alertness in the brain.” This holistic transformation affects both body and mind, making it a powerful tool for overall well-being. The practice helps develop not just strength and flexibility, but also mental clarity and body awareness.
Accessibility is a cornerstone of Yoga Kurunta. As Geeta Iyengar points out, even elderly practitioners can engage in this practice safely. The rope support allows practitioners to build confidence gradually, experience poses more fully, and understand proper alignment while working at their own pace. This makes it an ideal practice for both beginners and advanced practitioners seeking to refine their understanding of asanas.
In our contemporary world, where many struggle with physical limitations, stress, and the need for supported practice, Yoga Kurunta offers a bridge between traditional yoga and modern needs. It embodies the innovative spirit of the Iyengar tradition while maintaining deep roots in classical yoga philosophy. The practice demonstrates how intelligent use of props can enhance rather than diminish the yoga experience.
Through regular practice of Yoga Kurunta, practitioners can experience profound transformations in their physical and mental well-being. The practice brings lightness to the body, clarity to the mind, and a deeper understanding of yogic principles. However, as with all yoga practices, it’s essential to learn from a qualified instructor who can guide proper setup and technique, ensuring practitioners receive the full benefits of this remarkable practice while maintaining safety and alignment.
The beauty of Yoga Kurunta lies in its ability to make advanced postures accessible while helping practitioners develop greater body awareness and control. It reminds us that sometimes, support and guidance – in the form of ropes and props – can help us achieve what might otherwise seem impossible, leading us toward a deeper and more fulfilling yoga practice.
