Yoga F.A.Q.s

    Recently, several people have mentioned that they'd love to try yoga, but are a little intimidated by the fact that they don't know much about it, or what to expect when going to a yoga studio for the first time.  I don't know how many out there feel the same, but hopefully this post will help clear things up if you feel similarly.
   What is yoga?  Well I'll tell you what it's not.  Yoga is not a religion, nor does is contradict any religions.  It doesn't even have to be a spiritual practice if you don't want it to.  If you do want it to, yoga will complement any religious belief by promoting compassion, awareness and mindfulness.  Yoga can be one or more of many things.  It can be an amazing physical practice that will help to promote physical fitness, and a counter balance to many common ailments.  It can be a philosophy and a way of life.  You can leave your practice on the mat, or bring its principles with you into your life, as many of these principles apply to more than the physical postures.
    Who can do yoga?  Anyone!  You don't have to be flexible, strong, thin, young or even healthy to benefit from  a yoga practice.  Walk into many yoga studios and you will see people of all ages, shapes and states of health.  The point is to fit your yoga practice to your needs.
    The decision to actually get up and go to a yoga studio can be a hard one.  It's a step outside your comfort zone, and all yoga instructors understand that.  Just know that we are thrilled when someone who has never practiced yoga before comes to class!  We're excited that we get to share yoga with you.  Also know that you are not being judged.  Everyone in the class, including the teacher remembers their first foray into yoga and are eager to make it painless for you.
    A few things to know before hand:
You'll want to bring your own mat, which can be purchased at most big stores like Target and Walmart, but are also probably sold at the studio.  If you sweat, bring a small hand towel, and also a bottle of water (preferably not glass, most studios request that).  Dress comfortably, in clothes you can move easily in.  Be aware though, that if your top is too loose, it may shift and slide when you do postures where your hips are higher than your head.  You may want to wear a top that is form fitting.  Dress in layers, especially in cooler weather.  You'll want a long sleeved shirt, and maybe socks for when you are meditating, or in final relaxation.
Plan to arrive at the studio about 15 minutes before your first class.  You'll need to provide your info, and fill out a health history form before taking class, as well as purchase your class or package.  Also, the instructor will probably want to get to know you a bit, and this will give you a chance to ask any questions you may have.
Once you are in class:
Don't stress!  Lay your mat out, have a seat and enjoy your first class.  Don't push too hard.  Although it's hard, it's important to not compete with those around you.  Yoga is supposed to feel good, and although the first class may have it's moments of discomfort, every effort should be made to work at your pace.
If you don't like the first class, don't give up!  There are so many different types of yoga, and different styles of teaching.  There will be at least one that you connect with!



 

Fall Seasonal Yoga

Happy Autumn!  As the weather changes, so do our yoga practices.  Click on the picture below to be taken to an awesome 8 minute restorative sequence designed by Melina Meza for the Fall season.  8 minutes!!!! You can do that!  Make it your gift to yourself today!

Pre- Natal Yoga

          Yoga can be a great way to physically, mentally and emotionally prepare for childbirth.  It helps to improve circulation, strengthen postural muscles, and may help to alleviate minor aches and pains associated with pregnancy.

         

Before taking a yoga class, please speak with your doctor to ensure that a yoga practice is appropriate for you during your pregnancy.  Also, let your instructor know that you are pregnant so that he or she can make the necessary adjustments and recommendations. 

A few things to know before taking a yoga class while pregnant:

o   Avoid prolonged poses on the back after the first trimester.

o   Avoid poses that stretch the muscles too much, particularly the abdominal muscles.

o   Avoid all poses that put pressure on the abdomen, especially forward folds, twists, and belly down postures.

o   Modify folding poses with legs apart so the belly comes between the legs, and bend from the hips, not the back.

o   Come out of poses very slowly.

o   Feel free to use the wall to support certain poses.

o   Avoid standing motionless for long periods of time.

o   Do not attempt to learn advanced or inverted postures during pregnancy.

o   Remember to breathe freely throughout the class.  Speak with your instructor about which breathing techniques to avoid during pregnancy.

o   It is normal to feel fatigue, especially during the first and third trimesters.  Trust your body, rest when you need to, and avoid any pose that doesn’t feel right.

Meditation

Just wanted to share a guided meditation from Rainbeau Mars.  Click the link:
http://youtu.be/HYpQXIp8NW8 and enjoy 10 minutes of "me time".