FAQ  About Yoga & Your First Class

What is Yoga?

Yoga traces its roots back at least 5000 years to India, where the eight limbed path of yoga first began.  Yoga literally means “to yoke or unite”.  The foundation of yoga is this uniting of the mind, body and spirit creating a well rounded whole.  The form of yoga most often practiced in the West is hatha yoga, meaning physical exercise.  The asanas or postures practiced in a yoga class help to strengthen, stretch and relax the body and the mind.

Who Can Practice Yoga?

Anyone can begin a yoga practice.  If you are new to exercise it’s a good idea to talk it over with your doctor.  If you are just beginning your yoga practice it’s important to discuss your goals and any limitations with your instructor.  Yoga poses can be modified in many ways to accommodate all different levels.  At the Yoga Garden we help you to find the best class for your body and look forward to answering your questions whether you are a new or continuing student.

What are the Benefits of Practicing Yoga?

Regular yoga practice creates strong supple muscles, a toned core, and improved circulation.  Regular practice also reduces stress, increases concentration, and promotes more restful sleep.  The deep breathing techniques practiced in our classes also help practitioners feel energized yet peaceful.  A regular yoga practice is part of a well rounded health regimen and compliments both cardio and strength training.  Hatha yoga increases flexibility and strength, safeguarding against injuries from other sports and activities.

Is Yoga a Religion?

Yoga is a non-dogmatic practice and can be utilized by people of any faith. T.K.V. Desikachar says in his book, The Heart of Yoga, “another classic definition of yoga is to be one with the divine”. It does not matter what name we use for the divine—God, Allah, Isvora, or whatever—anything that brings us closer to understanding that there is a power higher and greater than ourselves is yoga. When we feel harmony with that higher power, that too is yoga. The actual practice of yoga takes each person in a different direction. It is not necessary to subscribe to any particular ideas of God in order to follow the yoga path.

What to Expect in Your First Class

Most classes at the Yoga Garden begin with a check in to find out how students are feeling that day and what each person is interested in working on.  This is a great time to let your instructor know about injuries, concerns, or questions.  From there we have seated meditation and breathwork for about five minutes to focus and set the tone.  After meditation we move on to the body of the class.  Deep breathing is maintained for the duration.  Class ends with final relaxation pose or savasana and occasional guided meditation.  To honor our time spent together we say the word “namaste” which is Sanskrit for “the sacred in me honors the sacred in you”.

It is important to bring an open mind, ask questions and most of all play!

Updated: Thursday September 20, 2007

Welcome | Events & Specials | Schedule & Pricing | Class Descriptions | Instructors

| FAQ & First Class | Contact Us

© 2007 the Yoga Garden