What Is Yoga?
Yoga derives from the Sanskrit word yuj. It means to yoke or bind. It is often referred to as a "union" between breath, body, the mind and the emotions. Most scholars agree that yoga is around 5,000 years old. Today most people practicing yoga are engaged in the third limb, asana, which is a program of physical postures designed to purify the body and provide the physical strength and stamina required for long periods of meditation.
How Is Yoga Different From Stretching or Other Kinds of Fitness?
Unlike stretching or fitness, yoga is more than just physical postures...yoga is a journey of self-discovery. It provides many of the same benefits, the yoga integrates the body with the breath to provide a holistic physical conditioning. Finding this balance allow the mind to relax…reducing stress and all its negative impacts.
Is Yoga a Religion?
No, yoga is a philosophy, science and art that comes from India and is estimated to be 5,000 years old. Medication, or a time of quiet reflection, is part of most classes, and can be useful to promote one’s spiritual well-being, but it is up to you to decide what them means to you.
I’m Not Flexible—Can I Do Yoga?
Yes! You are a perfect candidate for yoga. Many people think they need to be flexible to begin yoga, but that’s a little bit like thinking that you need to be able to play tennis in order to take tennis lessons. Come as you are and you will find that yoga practice will help you become more flexible. In addition, you'll find strength, coordination, and enhanced cardiovascular health, as well as a sense of physical confidence and overall well-being.
What Do I Need to Begin?
Wear something easy to move about in like sweat pants, leggings, or shorts, nothing too loose or too restrictive so that you can move easily. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes. Don't worry about footwear since we practice barefoot. Most studios have mats and props to borrow or rent.
How Do I Know What Type of Class to Take?
If you're new to yoga, you have a lot of options. All forms of yoga can improve your strength, flexibility, and balance, release tension in your body, quiet your mind, and help you relax.
To get the most benefit, you should choose a yoga style that matches your current fitness level, as well as your personality and goals for practicing yoga. Are you looking to sweat your way into a lean form, or does a gentler, more meditative approach sound more appealing?
Because of the wide variety in classes, it’s helpful to contact the teacher, studio, or gym to help you find just the right fit. If you have injuries or medical conditions, try a few private lessons to learn modifications to make your practice a safe and enjoyable experience.
Yoga derives from the Sanskrit word yuj. It means to yoke or bind. It is often referred to as a "union" between breath, body, the mind and the emotions. Most scholars agree that yoga is around 5,000 years old. Today most people practicing yoga are engaged in the third limb, asana, which is a program of physical postures designed to purify the body and provide the physical strength and stamina required for long periods of meditation.
How Is Yoga Different From Stretching or Other Kinds of Fitness?
Unlike stretching or fitness, yoga is more than just physical postures...yoga is a journey of self-discovery. It provides many of the same benefits, the yoga integrates the body with the breath to provide a holistic physical conditioning. Finding this balance allow the mind to relax…reducing stress and all its negative impacts.
Is Yoga a Religion?
No, yoga is a philosophy, science and art that comes from India and is estimated to be 5,000 years old. Medication, or a time of quiet reflection, is part of most classes, and can be useful to promote one’s spiritual well-being, but it is up to you to decide what them means to you.
I’m Not Flexible—Can I Do Yoga?
Yes! You are a perfect candidate for yoga. Many people think they need to be flexible to begin yoga, but that’s a little bit like thinking that you need to be able to play tennis in order to take tennis lessons. Come as you are and you will find that yoga practice will help you become more flexible. In addition, you'll find strength, coordination, and enhanced cardiovascular health, as well as a sense of physical confidence and overall well-being.
What Do I Need to Begin?
Wear something easy to move about in like sweat pants, leggings, or shorts, nothing too loose or too restrictive so that you can move easily. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes. Don't worry about footwear since we practice barefoot. Most studios have mats and props to borrow or rent.
How Do I Know What Type of Class to Take?
If you're new to yoga, you have a lot of options. All forms of yoga can improve your strength, flexibility, and balance, release tension in your body, quiet your mind, and help you relax.
To get the most benefit, you should choose a yoga style that matches your current fitness level, as well as your personality and goals for practicing yoga. Are you looking to sweat your way into a lean form, or does a gentler, more meditative approach sound more appealing?
Because of the wide variety in classes, it’s helpful to contact the teacher, studio, or gym to help you find just the right fit. If you have injuries or medical conditions, try a few private lessons to learn modifications to make your practice a safe and enjoyable experience.