What is Yoga?

Yoga is the name given to an ancient practice that helps create a sense of union in all aspects of ourselves; in body, mind and spirit. The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit word, yuj, which means to yoke or bind. Yoga is a practice that connects or reconnects our body and mind through asana(poses) and our breath. The practice of yoga is about examining yourself and your attributes, and not only applying them but also refining them so you may live a balanced life.

What Is Vinyasa Yoga?

Vinyasa yoga traditionally includes numerous repetitions of the Sun Salutation movements that warm-up the entire body and prepare it for the rest of the asanas. It is a popular form of yoga because it can be modified to meet a wide variety of needs, Vinyasa can be a fairly rigorous form of yoga or it can be very gentle. Vinyasa yoga includes postures and transitional movements linked together with conscious breathing.

What If I'm Not Flexible?

Don't worry yoga asked that you have a flexible mind, through practice the flexibility will come. Your body and breath will guide you.

How Often Should I Pratice?

Like anything in life consistency is the key. Transformation of any form takes time, be patient and gentle with yourself.

What Should I Wear/Bring to Class?

Wear whatever you feel comfortable moving in. Keep in mind form fitted tops help, when doing inverted poses. A towel or blanket is recommended. Yoga is done in barefeet, no shoes/socks required. Last, but not least bring an open mind and a bit of curiosity.

Is Yoga Religious?

Yoga is not a religion. It is a philosophy that began in India an estimated 5,000 years ago.

Can Yoga help me lose weight?

Absolutely, a typical yoga practice can burn 200-600 calories, depending upon intensity. More important yoga teaches what feels good in our body and what doesn't. Our body image starts to improve and we become aware of what we put into our body. Our choices automatically start to improve with healthier foods and plenty of water and a good night sleep always helps.

Why Are You Suppose To Refrain From Eating Two to Three Hours Before Class?

In yoga 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. If you are a person with a fast acting digestive system and you 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 Does Namaste (Nah-mah-stay) Mean?

The gesture Namaste represents the belief that there is a divine spark within each of us that is located in the heart chakra. Namaste is usually done at the end of practice. To perform Namaste we place the hands together in a prayer position at the heart, close our eyes and bow our heads. My definition: May all the goodness in me, extend out to all the goodness in you and to the rest of the world....

What Is The Meaning Of OM?

OM is a sound, done as a chant. Om is done at the beginning or our practice to unite everyone together, to ground and to define our space, to become a sangha(group). Om is also done at the end of our practice to reestablish our togetherness and to take that feeling of being present with us through our day.