Yoga Faq

Q: What is Yoga and what are its origins?

A: Yoga has been traced to the Stone Age practice of Shamanism, and stone carvings from as early as 3000 B.C. depict figures in Yoga poses. Yoga's history, then, is tied to the history of civilization, itself.
The purpose of practicing Yoga has remained constant through the ages: to move our bodies and observe our breathing in ways that allow us to deepen our connection with the universe and the world around us.

Q: What is Anusara® Yoga?

A: Anusara (a-nu-sar-a) is a Sanskrit word meaning "flowing with grace." Anusara® Yoga - founded in 1997 by John Friend, a master teacher - is a school of Hatha Yoga that celebrates a Tantric philosophy of intrinsic goodness. Practicing Anusara® Yoga aligns ourselves with the Divine so that we may step deeper into this natural flow of grace.
The poses in Anusara® Yoga are "heart-oriented," or from the inside-out. While the poses are sophisticated, athletic and therapeutic, Anusara® Yoga also respects and honors each student's abilities and limitations. Practicing Anusara® Yoga promotes confidence and a sense of joy.

Q: What are the benefits of practicing Yoga?

A: Yoga helps maintain your health and slows the aging process. The more you practice Yoga, the greater the gain, including:
• Improved balance and flexibility
• Increased energy and ability to focus
• Strengthening and toning of muscles
• Improved digestion
• Calming of the nervous system

Yoga is a gentle, gradual way to gain flexibility, strength and stamina at any age.

Q: What do I need to do to get started?

A: Come in! Below we describe the kinds of clothing that works best for practicing Yoga. We also have Yoga mats, but getting your own mat may be more hygienic (yes, you perspire!), and it also gives you reason to practice at home.

Q: Can I do Yoga if I am not flexible?

A: Yoga in most forms, and particularly the type of Yoga we practice (Anusara), is respectful of each student's limitations and abilities. The more Yoga you do, the more you come to better understand your own body. And as you gain flexibility, you will also be gaining strength, agility and balance.

Q: Can I do Yoga if I am pregnant?

A: Yoga can be a wonderful activity for most pregnant women. You develop a deeper awareness of your body and the life within while also developing strength and flexibility that will aid in labor, delivery and recovery. Special pre-natal classes may be offered. And the activities of other classes can be modified to accommodate the needs and stages of pregnancy. Check with your doctor or midwife before starting classes while pregnant.

Q: Who can practice Yoga?

A: Anyone can practice yoga, from the young (over age seven or eight) to the old and everyone in between. There are benefits to be derived for every age group and every body type.

Q: What about children and yoga?

A: Yoga is generally not recommended for children under age seven or eight. And introducing children to Yoga generally requires classes designed for children - faster-paced, greater variety of positions, plenty of challenges. Over time, children become more precise in their improvements and Yoga can increase their concentration and determination.

Q: If I am a senior citizen, can I practice yoga?

A: You can not only practice Yoga, you can experience improvements in balance, agility, strength and flexibility, not to mention the wonderful mental and spiritual benefits derived from the practice. An experienced instructor can help determine an appropriate level of study based on your physical condition.

Q: What health conditions can yoga help?

A: Medical studies have found that Yoga promotes flexibility, weight loss and balance, and can help manage many chronic conditions including asthma, carpal tunnel syndrome, depression, low back pain, multiple sclerosis, osteoarthritis, memory problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, stress and fatigue.

In addition, Yoga students report improvements with joint, neck and back pain, as well as with migraine headaches and vertigo.
A Yoga class is not a substitute for talking with your doctor, but Yoga can aid in the healing process.

Q: Can Yoga replace strength training? Is it a good cardiovascular workout? Good for weight management? And will I develop large muscles if I do it regularly?

A: Yoga is naturally weight-bearing in many of its postures. Moving, holding and lifting your limbs all provide strength conditioning, as well as as a rigorous cardiovascular workout, especially as you become increasingly adept at the practice. Regular practitioners also report excellent weight management - when combined with a healthy diet, of course! As for muscle development, improvement in strength is a natural outgrowth of practicing Yoga on a consistent basis. You won't get giant muscles like weightlifters, but you will develop increased tone and strength.

Q: What is the difference between Yoga and GYROKINESIS®?

A: GYROKINESIS® is a 90-minute mat workout that complements Yoga practice. GYROKINESIS® gently works the joints and muscles through a series of rhythmic exercises. The exercises incorporate many key principles from yoga, dance, swimming and tai-chi.

Q: What is the difference between a Yoga mat and a Pilates mat?

A: Pilates mats are thicker. Yoga mats are "stickier" (less slippery). At the beginner level, it probably doesn't matter which one you use. However, intermediate and advanced Pilates requires rolling backward, so a thicker mat protects the spine.

Q: How long are Yoga sessions?

A: Sessions are 90 minutes long.

Q: What do I wear to Yoga classes?

A: You should wear clothing that is comfortable but form fitting. Nothing that is too loose or restrictive. Yoga pants and a slim-fitting T-shirt or tank top are good options. You have the option to be barefoot or wear socks. Toezies and Toesox (toe-less socks) are available for sale in our retail section. We suggest that long hair be tied back, and jewelry be removed for safety purposes. A dressing room is available for changing, and we provide complimentary lockers to safely store your valuables.

Q: How many times a week should I commit to Yoga?

A: If you can do a 90-minute session everyday -- great. These can be done in a class and on your own. If you just can't find the time to practice daily, try and do a class or two a week and fill in with shorter sessions on days when your time is limited. Any Yoga is better than no Yoga!

Q: How can I learn more about becoming a Yoga instructor?

A: Information regarding Yoga immersion training can be found at www.anusara.com.

Q: Can you suggest any books and/or DVDs to complement my training and further my understanding of Yoga?

A: Absolutely! Please visit the LEARN MORE information panel for a complete list.