Yoga FAQ


	Frequently Asked Questions: CAN I DO THIS? I’ve never done yoga before, can I do this? I’m not flexible – can I do yoga? I am recovering from an injury, can I still do Yoga? I am a complete beginner - will I stand out like a sore thumb? I am overweight, can I still do Yoga? WHAT IS YOGA ALL ABOUT? What is Yoga? How is yoga different from stretching or other kinds of fitness? What are the benefits of Yoga and how long before I experience these benefits? Is Yoga a religion? Why is the room heated in some of your classes? CHOOSING A CLASS Do I have to sign up for classes? What styles of Yoga do you practice at World Yoga? How do I pick the right class for me? When can I start? I am pregnant, do you offer pre-natal classes? I am interested in a gentle, relaxing & meditative class. Which classes are right for me? I am interested in a physically challenging style of yoga. Which classes are right for me? PREPARING FOR YOGA CLASS What should I wear? Should I bring a yoga mat Is it normal to experience soreness after yoga? Where is your studio located? MAKING YOGA A PART OF YOUR LIFE I have a very busy schedule, how do I fit yoga in? How often should I practice Yoga? Do I have to bring or own a Yoga mat? PAYING FOR CLASSES? What methods of payment are available? What is a multiple class pass? What does an "Unlimited Memebrship" mean? What are the studio policies? I've never done yoga before, can I do this? Yes, Yoga is for everyone. Going at your own pace, you can participate in almost any class, though it is important to chose a class that fits your abilities (see: How Do I pick the right class for me?). Beginners work right alongside more experienced students. Over time you'll build a base of strength and flexibility. If you are new to yoga or need a refresher, a great way to start is to take our Beginners Yoga Series. This will give you a greater comfort level with breath awareness, terminology, and poses, etc., that are used in the more advanced classes. back to top I'm not flexible - can I do Yoga? Yes! You are a perfect candidate for yoga. Your flexibility begins to improve after your first class. You will gradually build the strength and flexibility required to do the poses. We expect you to be inflexible, and always teach with respect and care towards everyone's abilities and limitations. When you are starting out, we encourage you to simply do your best. back to top I'm recovering from an injury - can I still do Yoga? During class to the best of your ability. With time, you will find that you are able to go deeper into the postures. You are the only one who knows your body's limits and abilities. To avoid injury, you should only go as far as you feel able to. Although the teachers will encourage you to go further, you are the only person who knows what it feels like to be in your body. So in a way you are your own best teacher. Please note that if you have an injury, illness or limitation that could be affected by the practice of yoga, it is important to inform your yoga teacher before class, they can help you find alternate poses and a modified practice while you are recovering. back to top I'm a complete beginner - will I stand out like a sore thumb? Everyone starts as a beginner. Classes typically have students of all levels of experience, including beginners. Nobody expects you to be an expert on the first day. Your balance, strength, and flexibility will come with practice. You will find that no one but the instructor will be paying attention to you as they will be intently focused on themselves and the instructor's direction. The first hurdle for many students is letting go of their egos and working from a place of acceptance. Remember that yoga is not a sport or competition. Keep in mind that if you push your body beyond what it can do just to keep up with someone else, you can injure yourself. Be sure to listen to your body, let go of competition and go at your own pace. If you are unsure what class is right for you call us and we can guide you to the appropriate level class. back to top I'm overweight - can I still do Yoga? Yoga is suitable for everyone regardless of body type, strength, and flexibility. Yoga is a process. You begin wherever you are. back to top Do I have to be young to practice Yoga? No. Yoga can be practiced by anyone at any age. Classes are designed to allow the student to go at their own pace and to their own ability. Our instructors help each student practice safely and within theirThrough time and sensitivity, you will develop a practice that is right for you. If you are unsure what class is right for you call us and we can guide you to the appropriate level class. back to top What is Yoga? Yoga is a centuries old tradition of stretching and breathing exercises designed to strengthen, tone and build muscle, promote strength, correct posture, increase circulation and flexibility and calm the mind bringing health, relaxation, and happiness. We teach classes that range from extremely gentle yoga (Restorative, Kriapalu) as well as aggressive forms of Yoga (Ashtanga, Power Yoga) that can be extremely challenging and an unbelievable workout. Yoga involves almost every muscle in the body and challenges the body to work in a different and often more passive way. As limbs function as free weights, moving the body's centre of gravity creates resistance. This strengthening gives way to endurance as poses are held for longer periods of time. back to top How is Yoga different from stretching and other kinds of fitness? Unlike stretching or fitness, yoga is more than just physical postures. Yoga is unique because we connect the movement of the body to the rhythm of our breath. Each posture combines flexibility, strength and balance to work your whole body. Yoga is a complete health maintenance system for the body. It has the ability to help you tone and lengthen muscles, lose weight, relieve back pain, improve circulation, purify your internal organs, and release tension to free the nervous system from undue stress. back to top What are the benefits of Yoga and how long before I experience these benefits? You often will notice the following benefits, especially right after class (the more you practice, the longer the benefits will last): • Builds strength and energy (yoga is one of the few exercises that builds both flexibility & strength, and that enhances almost all othersports and activities) • Improves Muscle Tone • Relieves physical tension, especially back pain • Helps with strength, flexibility, range of motion and balance • Calms the mind, reduces stress and anxiety • Increases metabolism and energy • Can help reduce depression, panic attacks and insomnia • Strengthens the immune system • Slows heart rate • Lowers blood pressure • Increases blood circulation • Helps to detoxify system • Improves the efficiency of the cardiovascular system, digestive system, nervous system and glandular systems. • Relieves physical tension • Promotes a state of relaxation and inner contentment. Of course you will not receive these benefits if you don't come to class, or don't pay attention while you are practicing. Yoga is not magic. If you want the benefits you have to do the work. Luckily the "work" is very fun and very satisfying, if you are patient and compassionate with yourself every step of the way. Our teachers will help you develop the discipline and compassion you will need to have fun with yoga - and get its full benefits.