- I’ve never done yoga before, can I still come to a class? What can I expect?
Of course! Classes are for anyone, no matter your level of experience. Most classes begin with a seated centering/calming exercise followed by slow movements and stretching to get the body warmed up. This warm up is followed by a series of standing postures. Classes typically include a few balancing and back bending postures near the end of class followed by a cool down and final rest. You will be guided through each pose by your instructor with verbal cues to help you find the proper alignment. Hands on assists may be given, but only with permission from the student.
2. I have injuries that make certain poses difficult, should I still come?
Yes! There are modifications or props that can be used for the majority of the poses. A regular yoga practice may not only help your body heal from an injury, but can lead you to become more in tune with your body and prevent injuries from happening.
3. Is yoga a religion?
No. There are many cultures and religions that incorporate yogic traditions and teachings into their practices, but yoga on its own is not a religion. For a more detailed discussion on what yoga is (and perhaps what it isn’t) check out this article: What Is Yoga?
4. How often should I do yoga?
Every day! Okay, so maybe that’s not feasible, but yoga can be practiced in so many different ways. Any amount of yoga can be beneficial to your health, so do whatever is right for your body and lifestyle.
5. What do the different names of yoga classes mean?
There are many styles of yoga. Each style varies, but generally use very similar postures. Classes of any style will usually incorporate poses to help warm the body up in the beginning, move toward more rigorous standing postures, and end with a series of cooling down / stretching exercises. Many of the different styles have names based on the teacher who popularized that particular version or method.
6. What does “vinyasa” mean?
Vinyasa is a style of yoga that focuses on coordinating the movements of your body with your breath. These classes tend to have a “flow” and rhythm in the way they move from one pose to the next. Some instructors will also refer to the combination of certain postures together as a “vinyasa.” In this case the three movements or postures to get from Plank to Chaturanga (low tricep pushup), Cobra or Upward Facing Dog (straightening the arms and lifting the chest), and finally to Downward Facing Dog (inverted V shape), all make up the “vinyasa.” Each of the three movements is associated with a certain part of the breath. A teacher may guide students through each portion of the three movements, or simply instruct the class to take the vinyasa on their own.
7. Do you have any tips for taking live classes with you online?
YES! I’ve actually created several documents to help you get started that include online class etiquette, how to set up your space, and ideas for yoga props using common household items:
General Tips for Class if You Are New to Yoga
Prop List and Home Alternatives
Online Class Etiquette / Guidelines
Also, check out this quick video with tips on HOW TO SET UP YOUR CAMERA for online classes. If you really need to see ME, I highly recommend logging in with two devices — one so that I can see you properly and the other so you are able to see me easily without craning your neck too far!