Questions
The answers to some frequently asked questions.
- What is yoga?
- Why practise yoga?
- Who can practise yoga?
- What happens in a class?
- What should I wear?
- Do I need my own mat?
- What if I am pregnant?
- Individual tuition
- Concerns
- Paper Work
- Eating and drinking
- Jewellery
What is yoga?
Yoga is not a religion. Yoga is an ancient system of Indian philosophy. It incorporates a range of practices from meditation, to physical postures and breath control. All of the yoga styles we teach at Yoga-is come under the umbrella of Hatha Yoga. Hatha Yoga combines movement and breath to exercise. It purifies the body’s muscles, nerves and glands. There are many different styles of Hatha Yoga (Iyengar, Astanga, Viniyoga, Sivananda etc.) Where the timetable says simply Hatha Yoga this means it is a class in the classical tradition of Hatha Yoga which does not follow any particular 'Guru' or teacher. The ultimate goal of all forms of yoga is enlightenment.
Why practise yoga?
The regular practice of yoga can have a profound effect on your physical and mental state. Practicing yoga can help you:
- Build strength
- Increase flexibility
- Promote calm and relaxation
- Relieve tension
- Improve concentration
- Boost energy
- Develop stamina
- Enhance body awareness
Yoga has also been shown to help alleviate many common complaints such as insomnia, anxiety, IBS, digestive disorders, PMS, stress, backache and headaches.
Who can practise yoga?
Almost anyone can practise Yoga, male or female, regardless of your age, size, shape, strength or flexibility. Yoga is non-competitive. This means you learn how your body works and seek to maximise its potential. Yoga works with your body, it does not impose a system of goals towards which you must push yourself, but allows you to discover the yoga within you. Depending on your individual circumstances you may prefer a very gentle class or one that is athletically challenging. We also have special classes for people living with serious illness or recovering from an injury, for children aged 3 – 11 and young people of secondary school age.
What happens in a class?
During a Yoga class, The teacher will explain and demonstrate the various postures (called asanas). A class usually starts with a gentle warm up and stretching sequence. There is usually a rest period between asanas. Gentle asanas at the beginning and end, and will include a balance, the stronger postures at the height of the session. All classes include breathing exercises (pranayama) which are usually at the end of the class just before the final relaxation period, that may last for 10 – 15 minutes.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes that you can move in freely. We remove our shoes and socks so we don’t slip. This is necessary for effective stretches and for sensitivity. Don’t worry if you feel uncomfortable in bare feet, you can keep your socks on till you feel comfortable. In the more dynamic classes you will tend to get hot, so we recommend that you wear layers of clothing which can be removed when hot and replaced when you feel cooler. For the gentler classes you might want to wear a little more clothing from the start.
Do I need my own mat?
Yoga mats, blankets and other props are provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. We also sell yoga mats, blocks and belts if you would like to have your own for personal practice (which is more hygienic!).
What if I am pregnant?
If you are 15 weeks pregnant it is best to join the Yoga for Pregnancy classes. You can take a gentle or Hatha Yoga class, especially if you have previously practiced Yoga for some time but need to take great care not to strain or overwork. In any general level yoga class, you attend; you must tell the teacher that you are pregnant as some postures are not suitable for you.
Injuries, mobility, high blood pressure and other health problems
Individual tuition
If you have a particular health problem, injury or just feel you may benefit from individual tuition for a few weeks before joining a class. We are happy to work with students one to one. Sessions cost £25 per hour or £105 for 5 one hour sessions. Please phone 01843 864532 or email info@yoga-is.co.uk for more details. Yoga postures can be adapted for most conditions. We would be happy to discuss the most appropriate classes for you. If you do come to a class and you have any injuries or health problems, please inform the teacher before the class begins.
Concerns:
If you are happy with the Studio tell your friends. If you have any constructive feedback please speak to Alan or Glenys as we value your comments.
Paper Work:
a) If you are attending classes on a regular basis you will be asked to complete a Health Check Questionnaire.
Eating and drinking
Yoga should be done on an empty stomach: 2-3 hours after a snack and 4-5 hours after a heavy meal. Food may be taken half an hour after practice, drink ten -fifteen minutes. This allows time for the body to switch gear from exercise to digestion.
Jewellery
It is safer to remove watches, necklaces and large rings as you could damage them or indeed injure yourself.