| What happens at a yoga class? |
Each class begins with a short period of centering. The teacher may have you focus on your breathing, and you'll contemplate an intention for your practice. After this contemplation, the teacher guides you through a set of poses (asanas, in Sanskrit) that build in intensity and then taper off gradually. You can expect to sweat during this more active part of class. At the end of each class, there is a five to ten-minute period of final relaxation, also known as savasana.
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| What does the word "yoga" mean? |
Yoga means "to yoke" or "union" in Sanskrit. We move our bodies and observe our breathing so that we may better experience our connection, our union, with the universe we inhabit. The word yoga can also mean "engagement": the practice is a way of deeply engaging and savoring the essence of Life.
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| What is "Anusara Yoga"? |
Anusara (a-nu-sar-a) is a Sanskrit word that means "flowing with Grace". Founded by master teacher John Friend in 1997, Anusara Yoga is a powerful hatha yoga system that unifies a philosophy of intrinsic Goodness with Universal Principles of AlignmentTM. It is an exceptionally therapeutic, sophisticated, and athletic practice that cultivates confidence and joy. According to John Friend, "The highest intention of practicing Anusara Yoga is to align with the flow of Grace, to awaken to the truth that our essential nature is part of this divine flow, and to lovingly and joyfully serve this flow... Anusara Yoga is an all-inclusive yoga in which each student's unique abilities and limitations are deeply honored." For more information on Anusara, visit www.anusara.com.
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| Can I do yoga if I am not flexible? |
Sure! If you're stiff, yoga can help you become more flexible. If you're already flexible, yoga can help you become stronger.
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| Can I do yoga if I am pregnant? |
Yoga can be a wonderful part of your pregnancy, but please check with your doctor or midwife first.
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| Can I do yoga if I have an injury? |
Because Anusara Yoga strongly emphasizes biomechanics, yoga with an experienced Anusara teacher is generally safe, and possibly even therapeutic, for people with mild injuries. Check with your doctor. You may wish to begin your practice with a private lesson rather than a group class. If you are in a group class, be sure to tell the teacher about your situation.
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| What should I wear? |
Wear something comfortable, easy to move in, and not too baggy. Yoga is practiced barefoot.
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| Can I bring my cell phone into class? |
As a courtesy to your fellow students, we would prefer that you didn't. If you must be available to someone in your care, please set your cell to vibrate during the more active part of class. We do ask that all cell phones be turned off during final relaxation.
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| What should I should bring to class? |
We suggest that you bring a small hand towel in case your hands get slippery on the mat. Mats can be purchased in our store, or you can borrow one free of charge.
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| Can I eat before yoga? |
| Physical activity on a full stomach is pretty uncomfortable, so avoid eating for a couple of hours before yoga class. On the other hand, it's hard to do yoga when you're ravenous! Figure out what works for you. |
