New to Yoga
FAQ: Frequently Asking Questions

What is yoga?

• Yoga is a group of physical, mental, and spiritual practices or disciplines which originated in ancient India. In its purest and traditional forms, Yoga was used as a method of therapy for helping people to live a more meaningful and successful life. The Sanskrit noun yoga translates to (and is cognate with) English "yoke". It is derived from the root yuj "to attach, join, harness, yoke".
• Here in the West, what we refer to as Yoga is more specifically known as asana. Asanas are performed as physical exercise where they are sometimes referred to as "yoga postures" or "yoga positions". Asanas promote good health, although in much different ways, compared to traditional physical exercises. Practicing Yoga is known to cultivate awareness, relaxation and concentration. Through the practice of yoga asanas, one puts the body into positions that are not often practiced in modern, everyday life and thus helps to maintain longterm range of motion as we age.

When should I arrive to class?

• Please plan to arrive at least fifteen minutes prior to class starting. For brand new students, be prepared to complete a tiny bit of paperwork.

How do I know which class package to purchase?

• Prior to attending class, we recommend that you check out our list of class prices and packages here. We always recommend our new students to check out our new student special - if you attend at least two classes, it pays for itself! For students who are brand new to our studio AND are new to yoga, we recommend checking out our five-week Yoga for Beginners series which you can find on our workshop and events page.

Do I need to tell anyone that I am new to practicing yoga or am new to the studio?

• Yes! Please ask our front desk staff to introduce you to the teacher prior to the start of class. Be sure to let your teacher know if there is anything important to know about you, like an injury, any experience (or lack of) with yoga, etc. Please note that receiving hands on assists can be part of the yoga practice, so please let your teacher know if you would prefer to not receive them or if you have concerns of any kind.

What do I wear to practice yoga?

• We recommend wearing something similar to what you would wear to the gym like comfortable, basic athletic gear. We practice barefoot to honor the sanctity of the yoga space.

What do I need to bring?

• We recommend three basic items to practice yoga: yoga mat, water bottle, and a towel. If you don't have a yoga mat, no worries! You can rent one for us for $2. Bringing a towel is most helpful if you know you tend to sweat easily or if you are taking a heated yoga class. 

Should I eat before class?

• We recommend that you avoid eating for at least two hours prior to attending a class. A light snack of fruit or nuts would be fine. Coming to class well hydrated is very important so be sure to drink lots of water prior to the start of class.

I've never practiced yoga before, I have an injury, or I feel out of shape! Which yoga class is best for me?

• First and foremost, we need to stress that we believe that yoga is for every body! We invite all levels of ability, all ages, all races, and all genders to join us for practice. For students who are new to practicing yoga or who feel they are dealing with limitations in the body, we recommend starting in our slower moving classes. All of our classes are designed to accommodate all levels and abilities, but as a new student, avoiding classes with the words 'heated' or 'power' in the title will be best, as those classes can often be intimidating to someone learning the practice. Check out of full list of class offerings here.
• Also, don't forget about our five-week Yoga for Beginner series! You can find more information about this series on our workshops and events page.

How often should I practice yoga?

• Our most common answer is: as often as you can. Practicing once a week can change your mind. Practicing three times a week can change your body. Practicing five times a week can change your life!
• If funds are limiting how often you are able to practice, please contact us and ask about our work exchange program (i.e. work in exchange for yoga).

I'm intimidated about practicing in a group class! Is there another, more private way for me to learn yoga?

• Yes, absolutely! We offer private yoga sessions which can be one-on-one or in a small group. It's a really great way to receive more attention from the teacher, have the ability to ask questions mid-practice, and build your yoga practice confidence. Please contact us if you're interested in learning more about our private yoga sessions.

I have additional questions!

• Please contact us by phone or email and we'd be happy to answer your questions or address your concerns.