Frequently Asked Questions About Yoga

What is Yoga?

The word yoga comes the Sanskrit word yuj, which means to yoke or bind and is often translated as union. The Indian sage Patanjali is believed to have documented the practice of yoga into

the Yoga Sutra an estimated 2,000 years ago. The Yoga Sutra outlines eight limbs of yoga: the yamas (restraints), niyamas (observances), asana (postures), pranayama(breathing), pratyahara (sense withdrawal), dharana (concentration), dhyana(meditation),and samadhi (absorption). As we study and practice these eight limbs, we can refine our behavior in the outer world. Through inward attention, we learn to recognize and change our habitual thought patterns and reactions. Many people are the most familiar with the third limb, asana, which is a discipline of physical postures designed to strengthen and purify the body to prepare for meditation and open the channels of the body, especially the spine, so that energy can flow freely. The deeper awareness of yoga is what differentiates it from fitness and stretching. Yoga is a powerful tool for self-transformation. It teaches focused attention, how to track the feeling of the breath, how to still the fluctuations of the mind, the ability be present and how to skillfully interact with life. Yoga brings together of all aspects of the body and mind. Yoga practices includes breathing techniques, physical postures, meditation exercises and self inquiry practices. Connecting the mind, body, and breath helps us to direct our attention inward. Ultimately, yoga practices lead each of us the freedom to experience and actualize our basic goodness and authentic self.

What are the possible benefits of Yoga?

Increased connection to inner freedom, basic goodness and the authentic Self.

Increased mental clarity and calm focus

Increased body awareness and physical confidence

Increased flexibility

Increased immune function

Increased strength and muscle tone

Increased balance

Increased cardiovascular health Decreased stress

Joyful and easeful posture

Enhanced sense of overall wellbeing

Is Yoga a religion?

Yoga is not a religion. It is a philosophy that began an estimated 5,000 years ago in India. The

teachings of Yoga provide a framework for spiritual growth and physical and mental health. Yoga philosophy has the influences of Hinduism and Buddhism, but it is not necessary to study those those traditions in order to practice or study yoga. It is also not necessary to depart from your own religious beliefs in order to practice yoga.

What if I am not flexible?

Come just as you are and you will find that yoga practice will help you become more flexible. We understand the feeling, however, saying that you are too stiff to do yoga is like saying you are too hungry to eat. Come and get this nourishment! Our skilled and knowledgeable teachers will encourage you to work safely and honestly at your edges. Celebrate what you can do!

How often should I practice yoga?

If you practice for one hour a week, you will feel a difference. To experience the optimum benefit, we suggest 3-5 times a week for 60- 90 minutes. Be realistic and work with the time that you have. A 20 minute session can really make a difference! Many people find that they naturally feel drawn to practice more and for longer sessions.

What kind of clothes do I need to wear to a yoga class?

For more active classes (Mixed Levels, Slow Flow, Foundations, Beginner); wear comfortable clothing that you are able to move in. Shirts that are too loose or that have hoods will ride up in certain poses. The more active classes are best done barefoot. There are also non-slip socks with grip support made for yoga. For Restorative and Yin; wear comfortable clothing that allows you to breathe as easily as possible.

How many Beginner, Restorative and or Foundations classes should I attend before moving onto Slow Flow and Mixed Levels classes?

People may spend anywhere from 3 classes to several months in Beginner’s and Foundations classes. It depends on you preference and the amount of practice you are doing each week. Feel free to check in with our teachers about this.

Can I come to class without a reservation?

At the time, it is required to book online before class. To reserve your class; log into your account online at wellness living or on the wellness living achieve app and click “ BOOK NOW”

What if I need to cancel a class?

If you need to cancel a class for any reason, we understand. We request that you do so online at least 2 hours before your scheduled class time.

Can I enter late?

We encourage everyone to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled class time so that the class can start right on time and to honor the people who are on time and waiting. Please take the entire class so you can can safely warm up and cool down. We allow people to enter class within the first 5 minutes.

I want to do yoga, but I’m not sure a membership is for me. What are my options?

You can buy single classes or 5 and 10 class cards. The larger the pack, the lower the price per class.

What are my membership options and what are the benefits?

If you like to do a few classes a week , it pays to go with our Monthly Unlimited Membership. This allows you to take any class every month for $89. There is a 6 month commitment for this rate. We also have an Unlimited Annual Membership. This allows you to take all classes on the daily schedule for $1000.

How do I purchase a gift certificates?

You can purchase Gift Certificates in person or online. We will give you a hard copy in person and email you an electronic version of our Gift Certificate if you purchase online. We can also mail you a hard copy Gift Certificate.