FAQs

What do I wear for class?
Comfortable athletic clothing that does not bind, but is not too loose is recommended. Practicing in bare feet is ideal (unless a medical condition precludes it). Please refrain from wearing any fragrances as a courtesy to fellow students.

What should I bring to class?
A yoga mat, a strap (old belts are fine), a small meditation cushion (throw pillows are fine), and a firm blanket (a beach towel is fine) will be helpful for your practice. Yoga blocks are optional.

What happens if a class is cancelled or I miss a series class?
Yoga Awakenings reserves the right to change and/or cancel classes. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be contacted by phone or email and payments refunded. There are no refunds for missed classes, workshops, or seminars. If you miss a class during any series, you may make up the class on another day within one week of the last session of the series.

What kind of yoga do you teach?
The style of yoga I teach is best described as classical Hatha yoga incorporating all the aspects of the ancient science. The poses (asanas) are just one aspect of yoga. Breathing practices (pranayama) that bring balance and manage stress are an essential part of yoga. Classical yoga also includes meditation, guidance for healthy living and relationships, and contemplation. Yoga philosophy says to “begin with the body”. Weekly classes will focus on connecting the body, breath and mind through asana practice and the use of pranayama techniques. Meditation instruction will be introduced to continuing students.

Is yoga a religion?
No, yoga is a philosophy. However, if you practice a religion, yoga may deepen your experience of it.

What does “yoga” mean?
The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “yug” or yoke. It means “union”. Through yoga, union is first created between body and breath, then breath and mind, and finally between mind and spirit. The yoga masters say, “Begin with the body”. Practicing asanas brings union between the body and breath and lays the foundation necessary to develop the deeper levels of union. When union is achieved, we are able to maintain a healthy, peaceful, balanced state regardless of external circumstances.

How often should I take a class?
It’s best to practice every day. But if you can only take class once or twice a week, do your best to incorporate yoga into your daily routine at home.

Can I eat right before class?
Try not to eat a meal at least two hours before class. It is best to practice on an empty stomach.

Do I have to be young to practice yoga?
People begin practicing yoga at various ages. It is not uncommon to meet first-time students in their 60’s or experienced practitioners well into their 80’s. Of course, the practice of a 20-year old is going to be different from that of a 60-year old. Over time, you will develop a practice that is right for you.

What if I can’t do every posture?
None of us can do every posture! We all have different physical capabilities, and it is important that we honor them and avoid pushing ourselves too far and risking injury. Work within your capacity and be patient with yourself. Yoga is not about competition or comparing yourself to others. If you get lost during a class, pause for a minute and watch the teacher or other students.

What if I can’t even touch my toes?
Come to yoga class as soon as possible! To begin practice, all you need is a flexible mind. With time and patience, flexibility will come.

What yoga books should I read?
A good, well-rounded book that introduces you to various aspects of yoga is: Yoga: Mastering the Basics by Sandra Anderson and Rolf Sovik. Just visit the store on this site to purchase this and other books on yoga, meditation, philosophy, and healthful living.

Precautions
If you have any major health problems, please inform the instructor before class. New students will need to complete a release form prior to starting class. That form is available on this site so you can print it at home and fill out the form before coming to
class. (Click here for the release form.) During menstrual periods, women
need to avoid practicing vigorous breathing (pranayama) exercises as well as
inversions.