Classes
Yoga is a powerful practice that enhances physical health, emotional balance, mental clarity and promotes a greater sense of overall well-being. Physically yoga has been attributed with helping to reduce stress and stress related illness such as high blood pressure, muscle tension, sleep dysfunction and fatigue. In addition, students of yoga often experience an improvement and stability in their general mood, an increase in memory and ability to focus as well as enriching their relationship with others.
People new to yoga often feel intimidated by the twisty complicated yoga poses often depicted in popular commercials and media. These often take years of practice and are by no means the goal in yoga. Flexibility and strength are not required in order to start practicing yoga, but will come as a result of a regular yoga practice.
Whether you are new to yoga or have been practicing for a while, here are some guidelines to support you having a better experience as you step into the studio and on to your mat:
* Always listen to your own body. As instructors we have learned a lot of yoga, but have never taken a class about you. When it comes to you, you know best!
* There are many diverse styles of yoga, some compliment each other and some actually contradict each other. Students often feel challenged when two teachers instruct the same pose very differently and don’t know how to handle the conflict. Be willing to explore all perspectives, but ultimately choose what is right for you and you’re body.
* It is better to practice on an empty stomach. If you are hungry before class, have a light snack like a piece of fruit or nuts to help tide you over.
* Drink plenty of water, especially after class.
* Plan to arrive a few minutes early in order to give yourself a few minutes to let go of the rest of your life and settle into yourself and your practice.
* If you do arrive late, take a deep breath before you enter the studio. It may be most appropriate for you to sit at the back of the room and wait to find your space in the room until the opening and centering portion of the practice is complete. Please be mindful and respectful of the space and energy in the room.
* Better late than never is my motto. However, if you will be later than 15 minutes if may not be appropriate for you to join the practice. Please ask the instructors permission. If you will be habitually late, please speak with the instructor so there is clear communication and protocol established.
* It is not recommended that you leave early. Savasana is a very important part of the practice. That being said, if you must leave early please inform the instructor ahead of time and leave quietly.
* If you are dealing with any medical issues, injuries or pregnancy, please notify the instructor. The instructor may or may not know how to modifications for you, but it will support them helping you to explore your practice more safely or give you space to find your own way.
* Wear clean clothes that are flexible and easy to move in. The practice is typically done bare foot, so no socks or footwear required.
* Please don’t wear perfume or aromatherapy. Likewise, please be aware of your body odor and arrive clean and/or deodorized. Some people are sensitive to strong scents, so be kind to others.
