Nigella Lawson and the Quiet Power of Iyengar Yoga
9th February 2026
Nigella Lawson has long been celebrated for her warmth, wit, and unapologetic enjoyment of life’s pleasures. But behind the scenes of her busy career, she has cultivated a steady, grounding practice that may surprise some: Iyengar yoga. Over the years, this method has become a cornerstone of her routine, supporting her strength, posture, and sense of balance both on and off screen.
A Slow, Precise Practice That Resonates
Nigella has spoken openly about her preference for “a rather slow form of yoga called Iyengar,” emphasising how its focus on precision and alignment suits her needs and temperament. In interviews, she has shared that she practises yoga three times a week and values the stretching, mindful movement, and restorative qualities it brings to her life.
Her description of practising Iyengar yoga “in a very slow way – sometimes lying down” may sound gentle, but it belies the depth of the method. Iyengar yoga is known for its rigorous attention to detail, with practitioners using props such as bolsters, belts, blocks, and wall supports to increase awareness, refine alignment, and make postures accessible without strain. Even seemingly simple poses are approached with care and intelligence, encouraging stability, clarity, and strength.
A Practice for Feeling Well, Not Just Looking Well
Nigella has consistently rejected the idea of yoga as a tool for rapid transformation or aesthetic goals. Instead, she frames her practice as a way to feel well, stay mobile, and maintain a sense of inner steadiness. As she puts it, the older she gets, the more she recognises the importance of stretching and mindful movement as part of everyday life.
This perspective aligns closely with the ethos of Iyengar yoga, which prioritises sustainability, accessibility, and long-term wellbeing. The method is designed for real bodies and real lives, offering a structured pathway that supports practitioners at every stage, regardless of age or experience.
Source: Europe Says / Express coverage
Part of a Wider Community of Iyengar Enthusiasts
Nigella is far from alone in her appreciation of Iyengar yoga. Over the years, many public figures – from actors to athletes – have turned to this method for its ability to build strength, improve posture, and support rehabilitation. The Times has previously highlighted Nigella’s practice in the context of a broader trend among A‑listers who value Iyengar yoga for its transformative yet understated approach.
But perhaps more importantly, Nigella’s story reflects the experience of thousands of practitioners across the UK who have discovered that Iyengar yoga offers something deeper than a workout: a way to reconnect with the body, cultivate resilience, and find moments of calm in a fast‑paced world.
You can read more about the principles and history of the method in this Iyengar Yoga UK article.
Iyengar Yoga as a Path to Sustainable Wellbeing
Nigella’s long-standing relationship with Iyengar yoga underscores a powerful message: wellbeing doesn’t have to be extreme to be effective. A slow, steady, alignment‑focused practice can be profoundly impactful – supporting physical health, emotional balance, and long‑term vitality.
Her journey is a reminder that Iyengar yoga is not about striving for perfection, but about showing up with curiosity, compassion, and consistency. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, the method offers a pathway to feeling grounded, energised, and at home in your body.
Find out more about Iyengar Yoga <link to what is Iyengar Yoga> and search for a class near you <link to class search>
You can also read more about how Nigella has spoken about Iyengar yoga in relation to her wellbeing in recent years:
We wish Nigella every success — and enjoyment — as she continues to host The Great British Bake Off.
Iyengar Yoga UK
