Questions
What is Yoga? Why practice yoga? Who can practice yoga? How often should I practice yoga? What is done in a class? What should I wear? Do I need my own mat? What if I am pregnant? What if I suffer from health problems, injuries, high blood pressure, mobility problems, etc. What type of yoga is taught at Yoga Connection? What is a Yoga Guide? What if I can't do a pose? Can I wear socks or shoes? What if I need to leave the class / thirsty, toilet, etc. Do I need to register ahead of time for a class?Answers
What is Yoga?
Yoga, derived from the Sanskrit word yug, means “to yoke”, “bind”, join” or can mean “union” or “fusion”. In India, Yoga has been referred to as training the consciousness for a state of perfect “enlightenment” or “self-realization”. Outside of India, yoga has become associated with the practice of Asanas (postures), mainly through Hatha Yoga.
Yoga is one of the six schools in Hindu Philosophy. There are many well-known Hindu texts establishing yoga, one of which is known as the Yoga Sutras, compiled by Patanjali, circa 150 B.C.. The Yoga Sutras are a set of 195 ‘wise sayings’ that form the principles of yoga. Patanjali gives the definition of yoga as “the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind” or can also be referred to as “steadiness of the mind” or “being present in the moment.”
Yoga is also known as a system of exercises practiced in order to enable control of the body and mind. One can achieve a yoga state through the practice of yoga.
Why practice yoga?
Yoga offers a myriad of benefits including physiological, psychological and biochemical. These can vary from increasing and improving strength, flexibility, endurance and cardiovascular efficiency and decreasing anxiety and stress, developing overall self-awareness, and improving memory and concentration to decreasing total cholesterol. The real question to ask yourself is "Why are you not practicing yoga?".
Who can practice yoga?
Anyone and everyone can practice yoga. At Yoga Connection we believe in lifelong well-being and offer yoga to all.How often should I practice yoga?
Yoga is a daily practice and is a lifestyle. It is up to you as to how often you want to practice yoga (once a day, once a week, or more), how you choose to practice yoga (on your own or with others) and where you practice yoga (at Yoga Connection, at home, or in the office).
What is done in a class?
Each class varies. Some classes may focus on yoga moves, some on yogic breathing, and some on meditation. Please refer to Class Descriptions for more specific class detail.
What should I wear?
You can wear almost anything to practice yoga as long as it is non-constraining.
Do I need my own mat?
No, yoga mats are provided for. However, Yoga Connection does sell yoga mats and do recommend making the investment in your own mat for hygienic reasons.
What if I am pregnant?
If you are expecting, it would be a good idea to join our pregnancy yoga classes as these are designed specifically for the pregnant woman.
What if I suffer from health problems, injuries, high blood pressure, mobility problems, etc.
You can still practice yoga. Yoga can often be very therapeutic and may even help you to cope, if practiced correctly. Please inform Yoga Connection of any health issues you may have and always inform your teacher so that they can work with you on an individual basis.
What type of yoga is taught at Yoga Connection?
Yoga Connection strives to offer a wide selection of yoga classes. Please see our Class Descriptions for further detail.What is a Yoga Guide?
Yoga Connection provides all of its students with a Yoga Guide. This person is a mentor who can help you discover and decide which yoga class is right for you.What if I can't do a pose?
Everyone practicing yoga has at some point been unable to get into a pose. This may be due to body/muscular shape, physical impairment, lack of technical understanding of the asana (posture), not practicing enough or could be due to many other factors. Whatever the reason, do not be discouraged. Your yoga journey will not be inhibited. Your teacher will work with you to help you gain a better understanding of why you can't do a pose. It may just mean you need to practice more.Can I wear socks or shoes?
Yoga is best practiced with bare feet.
What if I need to leave the class / thirsty, toilet, etc.
No problem, just be discrete as possible when leaving the studio so as not to disturb your peers.Do I need to register ahead of time for a class?
It is a good idea to register for class ahead of time as this will guarantee you a space, however it is not mandatory. Please be sure to inform your instructor however of any information you might feel is relevant to you practicing yoga.