What is yoga?

The word yoga has many meanings, including "to yoke" or union.  It is an ancient Indian tradition of philosophy and meditation.  Today, the most recognizable branch of yoga in Western culture is the physical poses, or asanas.   A yoga class consists of a sequence of asanas serving as a physical meditation, or a preparation for stillness.  A yoga practice incorporates asana and breath control to nurture the body and quiet the mind.

Why should I practice yoga?

Do you have a comfy chair?  A snack?  We could go on for days!  The physical and spiritual benefits of yoga are valuable to students of every age.  Yoga enhances flexibility, strengthens the body, and improves posture and balance.  It is a total body workout, toning the body and creating long, strong muscles.  Within the last ten years, health studies have begun to legitimize what yogis have known for years -- that yoga is a wonderful companion to combat the physical repercussions of stress and aging.  Yoga can help health conditions such as hypertension, chronic back, shoulder, and neck pain, osteoporosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, migraine headaches, and asthma.  It is a wonderful exercise for expectant mothers; in addition, it can alleviate symptoms of menopause.  Recent studies also cite yoga as a helpful supplement for depression or anxiety.  It is a challenging yet non-competitive exercise that can be both relaxing and energizing.  And fun!

I can't do yoga.  I'm not very flexible.

Good news!  You don't have to be flexible to practice yoga.  Each individual has his or her own unique place in each pose.  At the studio, teachers will suggest modifications as needed and props are a helpful aid for challenging circumstances.  You may be surprised at how quickly your flexibility improves!  Ask Carolyn's Dad.

I'm an athlete.  I don't think I can do that sitting still stuff.

If you approach yoga from an athletic background, you might be drawn to active yoga as it provides cardio exercise.  But whether you play golf, run marathons, if you are a cyclist, an equestrian - yoga compliments sports by providing all over strength and flexibility that will protect the body from injury.  Click here to learn more! .  And you never know!  As your practice deepens, you might find yourself more drawn to the meditative quality of the asanas.

Is yoga just a fad?

Sniff.  We don't think so!  But good question.  Yoga's resilience over thousands of years is testimony to the wisdom of the practice.  We applaud Americans for tuning in!  Most folks who commit to yoga find they have gained a lifelong companion.  If people try yoga because it may seem trendy, we think that's better than say, cannibalism.

What class should I take?

Check out the class descriptions.  If you are new to yoga, start in a beginner's class.  If you've taken a couple yoga classes, it still might be wise to start out in beginners, just to review the basics.  Sometimes it is challenging for us westerners and athletes to understand the yogic approach when most of us originate from a "no pain, no gain" or Rocky-like drive ("Adrian!") to succeed.  One wants to bring intensity into a pose but respect his or her body's limits. 

What should I wear? 

Wear comfortable, loose clothing.  Be considerate of students around you -- thongs and Speedos best saved for the beach. 

Should I bring anything?

We have mats and props at the studio, but you are welcome to bring your own mat.  We have lockable storage units for your valuables.  Also welcome are Carolyn’s favorite candy in descending order of preference: 1. jellie-bellies (no licorice), 2. Mary-Janes (ahem, the CANDY)  3. Baby Ruth bars.