New To Yoga
What is Yoga?
Yoga links a series of physical postures (asanas) and the breath. It helps us to relieve stress and feel more energized and aware as well as increasing our flexibility, strength, endurance, focus and balance.
Yoga is a Sanskrit word meaning union. In our practices, we are working towards the union of mind and body. In yoga, it is the breath that connects the two. Practicing the physical poses coupled with attention to the breath helps us to develop a personal awareness of our physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual condition, allowing us in to find a better balance in our lives.
And, of course, it feels great and it's a whole lot of fun!
Does yoga relieve stress?
Absolutely. Numerous medical studies have demonstrated that yoga not only relieves stress, it does so beginning with your very first class. There's no denying that stress has reached epidemic proportions in the U.S. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, 75 to 90% of doctor visits are for stress related ailments and complaints. Stress is also linked to the six leading causes of death - heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver and suicide. Stress has even been declared a hazard of the workplace by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Viewed from this perspective, yoga may well be the single most important thing you can do to help improve your health.
What are some other benefits of practicing yoga?
Where do we begin? Yoga stimulates your muscles, nerves and internal organs. It helps to improve your circulation and your digestion. It relieves stress in ways other physical exercise doesn't and helps you to establish an inner calm, improving your concentration, confidence and even your mood. A short list of yoga's benefits includes:
- improved sleep
- increased energy
- lower blood pressure
- weight loss (studies show that yoga not only improved physical condition but enhances mood and the desire to take care of the body by eating better)
- improved digestion
- decreased anxiety and depression
- improved memory
- increased range of flexibility and motion
- increased strength
- increased endurance
- improved circulation
- improved posture
- improved balance and coordination
- increase relaxation
- improved concentration
Anyone and everyone can practice yoga. Whether you can stand on your head or you can barely touch your knees, let alone your toes, we promise - you can practice yoga.
For some gentle or restorative yoga may be the answer, for others the more physically challenging Vinyasa or Anusara styles will be perfect. For many, it is a combination. You don't need to have experience, strength or flexibility. You'll gain those things and so much more as you practice.
You don't even need to be sold on the concept. But you do need to come and give it a try. You can't know what yoga can do for you unless you give it a chance.
If you have any medical conditions, please talk with your doctor to determine how vigorous a class would be right for you.
Loose, comfortable clothing suitable for exercise is best. No special yoga attire is required. Best of all, we practice barefoot. Let those toes breathe!
Just you. If you have a yoga mat or any props, bring them along. You also may want to bring a small towel and some water. We can loan you a mat but most people prefer to have their own. Filtered water is available at the studio to refill your own water bottle.
When is the best time to practice?
Anytime that fits your schedule is the best time to practice. It's really a matter of personal preference. Regardless of when you practice, remember to be well hydrated and it is best to avoid eating a full meal for at least two hours prior to practicing.
The first step is to give it a try, just let go and enjoy. You can attend any Level I or All levels class. Please read the class descriptions to make a better informed choice. You can contact us before hand to discuss classes. Let your teacher know that this is your first time and share with them any medical condition or injuries you may have. Your teacher will offer suggestions and modifications that will make your first class more enjoyable. Above all, just come. Excited, curious, confused, skeptical, even a little scared...it doesn't matter, it's all ok.
Simply check our schedule here on the site (when you click on the class name, you will see a description) and show up. Please arrive about 15 minutes prior to class to check in, speak with your teacher and get settled. Feel free to call, email or stop by the studio before hand if you have questions or concerns (we'll be there 15-20 minutes prior to class and right after scheduled classes or you can leave a message and we will try to get back to you a quickly as possible). Otherwise, just show up. You can register online if you would like, but it is not necessary.
Not to worry. Yoga is about helping the body and mind to open up. As you practice, your flexibility and range of motion will increase along with your strength, stamina, balance and focus.
Can I practice if I'm pregnant?
Always check with your doctor. For some who have been physically active before becoming pregnant, some modified poses are fine; however twists, inversions and lying on your stomach are not advisable. Your best choice would be a good pre-natal yoga class. Please check the schedule.
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to prepare for class -- find your space in class and quiet your mind and body. This will allow you to maximize your yoga experience by keeping stress to a minimum.
Please turn off all cell phones and pagers before entering studio.
Please enter the practice space quietly. Once you enter the studio, try to help us cultivate a feeling of calm in preparation for the class.
If you are late, please enter quietly and courteously - Please try to be on time so that you don't stress yourself and others. However, if you are late, please be as considerate of others as possible.
Bring a yoga mat. We do have a few loaner mats but most people prefer to have their own mat.
Bring water or a water bottle (we have filtered water) - or water is available for $1.
Bring a small towel - we do have a limited supply of rental towels available for $1.
Please do not wear shoes in the practice space - Cubbies are provided for shoe storage outside the studio.
Wear loose, comfortable gym or yoga clothing.
Some people are allergic to scents so please do not wear excess amounts of perfume, aftershave, cologne or strongly-scented lotions or soaps.
Be sure you mention any pre-existing injury or medical condition to the teacher at the beginning of class so that he/she can help safely modify and enhance your practice.
Don't leave class early. If it is unavoidable, please let the instructor know before class. An essential part of the yoga practice is to allow the mind/body time to integrate what it has experienced. Therefore, please take savasana (resting pose) before you go. We recommend that you take 5 minutes to experience this culminating posture before leaving. Position your mat near the door to minimize class disruption.
Always take savasana. As mentioned above, this final pose is integral to helping your min/body integrate what it has just experienced. Don't deprive yourself.
Please bring an open mind and a willing spirit!
