... to my Frequently Asked Questions about Yoga page.

What is Yoga?
Yoga classes include breathing exercises and warm-ups to prepare for Yoga poses and movements, Yoga postures and movements for strength, flexibility and balance, and deep relaxation practice for stress relief. Yoga provides a well-rounded mind/body workout using breath and movement to deepen self-awareness, concentration and inner calmness while building tone and strength, increasing flexibility and balance, and improving coordination. Yoga is well known for it effectiveness in integrating the body and the mind. This means working on physical as well as mindfulness goals through concentration and focus on your present moment experience. This inward focus gradually leads to a quieter mind, inner calmness, and physical health.

Is Yoga for everyone? What if I'm stiff and out of shape?
Yoga classes vary greatly in level of difficulty. Classes range from Gentle Yoga; for beginners who do not traditionally have a workout regimen and need to start slowly, to classes that develop and require more endurance and ability to move comfortably. If you are able to kneel and squat down fairly comfortably, a regular Beginner's Yoga class is right for you. Just remember Yoga is for everybody and every body type.

How is Yoga different from stretching and normal exercise?
Yoga involves more conscious awareness of breath and the work you are doing with your body. Poses and movements are unique and have specific purposes and effects on the body. The breath is used to deepen stretches and flexibility. Focus and concentration are key ingredients in Yoga practice.

Will Yoga help me lose weight?
Yoga can help you to lose weight gradually and permanently when you practice regularly and eat reasonably. As you become stronger and develop greater stamina, a more intensive Yoga practice will help your body maintain weight control and excellent muscle tone.

Is Yoga a religion?
Yoga is not a religion. It is a practical approach to healthy living based on a philosophy that mind, body and spirit are one. Yoga has many branches and practices besides Hatha Yoga, the physical fitness part of Yoga. There are many excellent books and web pages that explain Yoga in depth.

What if I've had an injury or recent surgery?
Before you begin any exercise program, get permission from your physician or physical therapist. If you have medical approval to exercise, be sure to inform your Yoga instructor of your condition and limitations. Take care of yourself in class and avoid doing anything that doesn't feel right or that causes you pain. It is recommend that you work with the same Yoga instructor regularly rather than take random classes from different teachers.

How often should I attend yoga class?
Ideally, two times per week. This gives you two good practice sessions. If you can do at least two practices at home each week, for a total of four workouts, you will experience good, steady results. Once a week is fine also and can be complemented with three to four home practices. I recommend that you practice the Sun Salutation as it incorporates movement for the whole body.

What should I wear and bring to class?
Wear comfortable exercise clothing. Make sure you can kneel, squat and reach down toward your toes without being hindered by clothing. Avoid wearing very large T-shirts and tight fitting pants other than exercise pants that stretch. Shorts, sweats, leggings, non-bulky T-shirts, leotards, and fitness wear are all appropriate.

Do I need to have my own mat?
Many students prefer to bring their own mat to class once they have developed a regular practice. Some studios provide mats at no extra charge but many people wonder about the cleanliness of the mats (the is talk of "Sick Mat Syndrome" occurrences). If you prefer to use your own mat you may purchase one (check the Yoga Links page for Mats and Props).

For more information, contact Rodney via E-mail.