Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I wear to class?
Be comfortable. It is helpful for the instructor to be able to see the contours of your body so that she can assure that you are in proper alignment, but ultimately, you should feel comfortable and be able to move easily. Yoga is practiced barefoot, so wear shoes that are easily removed.
2. Do I need to bring any equipment with me to class?
No. We have everything that you need to take a class. However, if you feel that yoga is right for you, it is advisable to purchase your own yoga mat eventually.
3. How long before class should I wait to eat?
It is best not to eat for 2 hours before a class. As we are massaging the internal organs, it is best if the stomach is empty. A small piece of fruit, like a banana is acceptable if need be.
4. Should I bring water to class?
Yes. It is important to drink plenty of water before, during and after class. The body needs to be properly hydrated. As you practice, you will be eliminating toxins from the body via the skin (sweat) and the best way to aid this process is by drinking water. It is also vitally important to replenish your fluids after your practice.
5. How much does it cost for a class?
Classes are $9.00 per person. You can pay by the class or purchase a class punch card. They come in 10 class increments ($90.00 per card). There is no expiration date on the punch card so you only punch your card if you attend class.
We do offer discounts for teachers, students and seniors.
6. What is a workshop?
A workshop is class offered by either an instructor or a qualified person in his/her field that speak on topics of particular interest. We hold workshops regularly. Some are free to the public, others ask a nominal fee for their services.
7. Is yoga a religion?
No. Yoga is not a sport or a religion. It is however, spiritual. Meaning that one may or may not choose to focus inward while practicing. Deep breathing and a calming effect are benefits of a solid yoga practice.
8. Will I sweat during class?
Yes. As often as possible, we keep our studio at a warm temperature so that the body can easily detoxify by means of the lymphatic system. (sweating) This aids in cleansing the body. The heat is also helpful in warming the muscles so that the student is less prone to injury.
9. What is an Om?
The ancients believed that the vibrational sound of the word Om had healing properties and some even referred to it as "The sound of the Divine." Recent studies have shown that the vibrational sound that is being made actually helps to release toxins in the sinus region proving it to be of benefit to the practitioner. We do practice the sound of Om at the end of class. The student may choose to participate or not.
10. What does Namaste' mean?
Namaste' is a greeting that simply means, "The divine in me, recognizes and honors the divine in you." At the end of the yoga class it is considered a sign of respect and gratitude to bow slightly and say to one another "Namaste'" (Nah Mah Stay)
11. What is Ujjayi breath?
Ujjayi breath is the act of breathing in and out through the nose while slightly closing the throat. If a person were to say the word "Ahhh" they would achieve the correct closing of the throat. Breathing in this manner helps the student to relax the nervous system, warm up the body from the inside out (which reduces his chances for injury) and helps to carry out toxins that are being released as we practice.
12.What is a Mudra?
A mudra is literally translated as a gesture or a seal. They are symbolic eye, finger or body postures believed to engage certain areas of the brain. The gesture "seals" energy in the body. The benefits include reducing stress and anxiety, calming the brain, increasing flexibility in the hands, fingers, wrists and arms as well as opening the heart.
13. What does it mean when you ask us to "set our intention"?
When I begin a class, I ask my students to set their intentions for their class experience; What do they want to achieve from their practice at that moment? For some, it is to just get through the class, for others it is to relax and for others still it is to face their fears. (such as when we try inversions) For me personally, I ask to be a good instructor to my students, to speak clearly and to convey what I am trying to teach them in the most loving and encouraging way possible. Sometimes, when I am feeling tired, I set my intention to express energy and enthusiasm so that my students have a positive experience in class. When we are clear about what we want to achieve in any situation, be it yoga, relationships or business, we are more likely to achieve our goal if we are vivid in our minds about the result we wish to experience.
14. What is Sanskrit?
Sanskrit is the sacred language of India. A 'natural' language, Sanskrit represents the fundamental tones and sounds of nature and the world itself, and thus resonates these vibrations in its spoken form. Literally translated, Sanskrit means "perfectly constructed speech".
This is the language used when naming yoga asana (poses).
