Frequently Asked Questions
I've never done yoga before, is it safe for the complete beginner?
Absolutely. It is important to be gentle and allow yourself time to get used to the process. Give yourself at least 10 classes and take it easy; rest when you feel like it. You are clearing toxins and stretching like never before so it is normal to feel a bit overwhelmed at first. Be patient and you will transform yourself.
I am not flexible. Can I still do Yoga?
Absolutely – yoga is perfect for you. Many people think that they need to be flexible to begin yoga, but that's a little bit like thinking that you need to be able to play golf in order to take golf lessons. Come as you are and you will find that yoga practice will help you become more flexible.
This newfound agility will be balanced by strength, coordination, and enhanced cardiovascular health, as well as a sense of physical confidence and overall well-being.
Can yoga help me lose weight?
Yes! Because of the rigorous nature of these classes it is an excellent cardiovascular workout, a key element in weight loss. In addition, the body is reshaped by burning fat and creating muscle tone. Students who come frequently in the first 3-6 months enjoy the best results. Try to do as many classes as possible in the first 60 days! You will be very pleased with your results.
How often should I practice?
Yoga is amazing–even if you only practice for an hour or two each week, you will experience the benefits of the practice almost immediately. If you can do more than that, you will certainly experience more benefits with greater depth and impact. We suggest starting with two or three times a week, for an hour or a bit more each time. If you can only do 20 minutes per session, that's fine too. Don't let time constraints or unrealistic goals become an obstacle–do what you can and don't worry about it. You will likely find that after awhile your desire to practice expands naturally and you will find yourself doing more and more.
How is yoga different from stretching or other kinds of fitness?
Unlike stretching or fitness, yoga is more than just physical postures. The physical practice is just one aspect of yoga, but even in the physical practice, yoga is unique because we connect the movement of the body and the fluctuations of the mind to the rhythm of our breath. Connecting the mind, body, and breath helps us to direct our attention inward. Through this process of inward attention, we learn to recognize our habitual thought patterns. We become more aware of our experiences from moment to moment. The awareness that we cultivate is what makes yoga a practice, rather than a task or a goal to be completed. Your body is likely to become much more flexible by practing yoga, and so will your mind.
What do I need to begin?
All you really need to begin practicing yoga is your body, your mind, and a bit of curiosity. But it is also helpful to have a pair of sweat pants, leggings, or shorts, and a t-shirt that's not too baggy. No special footgear is required because you will be barefoot. It's nice to bring a towel to class with you. For sanitary reasons you will want to buy your own yoga mat, but we have mats and other props available for you for you forget yours or haven’t purchased yours yet.
Why are you supposed to refrain from eating two to three hours before class?
In yoga practice we twist from side to side, turn upside down, and bend forward and backward. If you have not fully digested your last meal, it will make itself known to you in ways that are not comfortable or popular with your classmates. If you have a fast-acting digestive system and are afraid you might get hungry or feel weak during yoga class, experiment with a light snack such as yogurt, a few nuts, or juice about 30 minutes to an hour before class.
What should I wear and bring to class with me?
A good attitude, a wiling heart, and an empty stomach are most important. After that, a slightly snug (so it doesn't flop when you bend over) but comfortable shirt and shorts or knit pants that allow for easy movement are recommended. We have one restroom/changing room, but for most people it's less stressful to come dressed for class if possible.
Yoga is practiced in bare feet and we ask that you remove your shoes as soon as you enter the studio. There's a place for your shoes and coats as you enter. Purses, wallets, and cell phones are best locked in your car before you come in. If you have to bring your cell phone, please turn it to silent mode so as not to disturb the class.
For hygienic reasons, we recommend that you bring your own mat to class each week. The studio will provide all other props for your use, however if you do have a strap or blocks and you're more comfortable with your own equipment, please feel free to bring what serves you best.
What are inversions?
Inverted poses place the pelvis higher than the heart for a minute or more. Students who should not do inversions and consequently, intermediate level classes, are those with high blood pressure, hiatal hernia, displaced or detached retina, glaucoma, disorders of the cervical spine, sinus infection, weak or broken capillaries in or around the eyes or face, coronary heart disease, and epilepsy.
Prenatal Yoga FAQ
Is it okay if I have never practiced yoga before?
Yes. You will find that yoga benefits the mind and body at any point in life. Class is designed to respect the needs and limitations of pregnancy. Also, all the postures can be modified to the level of the student.
Is it okay to start yoga in the middle of my pregnancy?
Yes. Whether you take yoga through all nine months of your pregnancy or just the third trimester you will notice the benefits before, during and after birth.
How far into my pregnancy can I practice yoga?
With your doctor’s approval, you can continue your yoga practice right up to birth.
How will yoga help my pregnancy and delivery?
By strengthening the essential muscles needed for birth, reconnecting with your breath and focusing your mind, the practice of yoga can prepare you for the challenges your labor and birth.