What is Yoga?

Yoga creates balance in the body by developing both strength and flexibility. This is done through the practice of poses (asanas), each of which has specific physical benefits, and by integrating the breath with movement. This “union” of breath and movement also helps to calm the mind and reduce stress.

Is Yoga a religion?

Yoga can be a spiritual practice, but it is not a religion, because it does not dictate the nature of a God to be worshipped

Can I do Yoga even if I’m not flexible?

Yoga can be very effective in loosening up muscular tension and stiffness. Many classes utilize props (blankets, blocks, straps) to assist with getting the full benefits of poses without compromising alignment and without putting undo strain on the body.

What are some benefits of practicing Yoga?

Flexibility, muscle strength and tone, better breathing, calmness, stress reduction and aging gracefully.

 

Do I need to wear special clothes?

It is best to wear clothing that will allow you to move comfortably and easily. While there are currently a lot of clothing lines that are specifically targeted for yoga practice, you can practice yoga in a pair of old sweats and a tee-shirt.

 

Do I need to have a yoga mat?

Most studios have mats available to use, usually for a very nominal rental fee.

 

How do I pick a type of yoga?

Below is a list of some popular styles of yoga. If you are brand new to yoga, look for a Yoga Basics class or a Gentle Yoga class to get started. Even if you are in great physical shape, it’s best to start with a few beginner’s classes and to try different teachers if you can. Most importantly, find what feels best for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HATHA is a general term which describes most of the physical types of yoga. A class is described as Hatha style will likely be slow-paced and gentle and introduce you to basic yoga poses.

VINYASA: Like Hatha, Vinyasa can describe many different types of classes. Vinyasa is a more vigorous, flow style of yoga, incorporating lots of poses in a succession of movement.

ANUSARA: Poses are taught in a way that opens the heart, both physically and mentally. Anusara philosophy is based on the belief in the intrinsic goodness of all beings.

ASHTANGA & POWER YOGA is fast-paced and physically demanding. Ashtanga is a flowing series of poses always done in the same order. Power Yoga classes are often based on Ashtanga, but may not keep strictly to the set series.

BIKRAM: Sometimes referred to as Hot Yoga, Bikram Yoga is practiced in a 95º to 104º room, allowing for a loosening of tight muscles and sweating, which is thought to be cleansing. Bikram uses a set series of 26 poses. Not all Hot Yoga classes make use of this series.

FORREST involves vigorous sequences intended to strengthen and purify the body and release pent-up emotions and pain. Expect an intense workout with an emphasis on abdominal strengthening and deep breathing.

IYENGAR: This style is most concerned with alignment, or how your body should be positioned in each pose in order to obtain the maximum benefits and avoid injury. Iyengar encourages the use of props in order to bring the body into alignment.

JIVAMUKTI takes its inspiration from Ashtanga yoga and emphasizes chanting, meditation, and spiritual teachings. These classes are physically intense.

KRIPALU yoga is both a style of hatha yoga and a yoga/wellness center in Massachusetts. This yoga practice uses a compassionate approach, moving at your own pace, with an emphasis on physical healing and spiritual transformation.

KUNDALINI uses rapid, repetitive movements, called Kriya, coordinated with breathing techniques to awaken energy trapped at the base of the spine so that it can travel up the body through the chakras.