Questions & Answers
Q: What is Yoga?
A: According to the Yoga Sutras, yogacittavrittinirodhah. Translated as Yoga is the cessation of the movements of the mind-stuff.
It is by becoming more aware of the body through physical asana practice that we can learn how to quiet the mind.
Q: I am not flexible; can I do yoga?
A: In the west, one of the most popular reasons for practicing yoga is to become flexible. While this is not the main purpose of yoga, it is generally a side benefit. With the right teacher, anyone can practice yoga safely and to their own limits.
Q: Is Yoga a religion?
A: While yoga's roots originate in India, it is actually a philosophy designed to calm the mind. The practices (asana, pranayama, meditation) can be applied to any type of person regardless of race, sex, or religion.
Q: Why is it recommended to not eat 2 hours before a yoga class?
A: Yoga practices are meant to bring awareness to the body. If you eat before a class, the body will still be digesting the food as you move into various positions. Similar to not eating before swimming, we want to be fully present when we practice so even our internal organs are participating in the asanas.
Q: What should I wear to a yoga class?
A: Please dress comfortably in loose-fitting clothing that will not restrict your movement. Gym clothes, yoga pants, and t-shirts are all appropriate.
Q: I haven't been active before my pregnancy, can I start prenatal yoga?
A: You cannot start prenatal yoga in your first trimester unless you have been doing yoga before your pregnancy. This is because of a possible increased risk of miscarriage when starting any new activity including yoga.
You are able to begin in your second trimester, upon the approval of your physician. To do yoga throughout your entire pregnancy, you need to have already been practicing before you become pregnant.
Q: What age should my baby be before starting Baby & Me Yoga?
A: For the baby & me yoga, it depends on if you had a vaginal birth or a c-section but the general rule is when you feel ready and strong enough. For a vaginal birth, we recommend approximately 3-4 weeks after having the baby and for a c-section, approximately 4-8 weeks after.
Q: Why is is recommended that a woman not perform inversions when she is on her moon/menstruation cycle?
A: A woman's menstruation cycle works with gravity to flow downwards. By practicing inversions, you are acting contrary to nature and possibly inhibiting/reducing the flow. Yoga is about acknowledging and respecting our bodies natural tendencies and providing alternative positions for inversions allows everyone to benefit from the practice.
Q: What does Om mean?
A: According to scripture, Om was the first primordial sound that created the universe. We chant this in order to connect to this sound which has been chanted for thousands of years.
Q: What does Namaste mean?
A: Namaste means "I bow to the divine in you."
Have another question? Please contact us with questions, comments, and concerns.