Questions about Yoga
What do I wear to class?
The most important thing about practicing yoga is that you are
comfortable in what you are wearing. Clothing should allow you to move and many
people prefer wearing clothing that is form fitting or closer to the skin. In
many postures clothing can get in the way - such as a loose shirt sliding off or
up over your head. Additionally, clothing that is closer to the skin allows you
to check your alignment and allows the instructor to ensure you are practicing
safely. Additionally, yoga builds heat in the body. Choose fabrics that breath a
little or have a wicking function. Clean clothes are more comfortable for you
and those around you, so take the time to wash them after each work out.
Can I eat before
Class?
It is better to practice yoga on an empty stomach. Eating before yoga
could make you uncomfortable during practice and decrease your range of motion
in certain postures.
Is Yoga
Something I can Do?
Anyone can practice and receive the benefits of yoga. You do not have to
get in shape to do yoga. The practice is individual and you begin with your
abilities, flexibility and strength and go from there. Patience is key to
enjoying yoga and growing in your practice.
Will I loose weight practicing yoga?
Though yoga is not considered a form of exercise that burns calories, you
may notice some weight loss as a result of doing yoga. Yoga is inspiring. You
will feel good after practice and this overall feeling of well-being affects your
confidence and how you feel about yourself.
I'm not
flexible - can I still do Yoga?
Flexibility is not a prerequisite for yoga. Although practicing yoga will
increase your flexibility and this will bleed into other areas of your life -
you will find your range of motion will increase and this will help you in other
sports and activities.
I Don't Think I am
Strong
Enough to Do a Whole Class.
Yoga is not about strength. It is about enjoying each moment and using
your breath and mind. Again, yoga is a personal practice and some days are
better than others. The most important thing is to honor your abilities and not
push yourself beyond your edge - whatever that may be for that given moment. It
changes. It is okay to rest and do things at your own pace. You will become
stronger and more confident with each class. You will also find yourself more
relaxed and less stressed in your every day activities.
Is yoga a religion?
Yoga is not a religion though it is a spiritual practice for many. It is a
philosophy and can go hand in hand with religion to deepen what your religious
beliefs. In simple terms, yoga means "to join." It is a tool to join the body
and mind to bring awareness to your overall well being.
What if I
Don't Want to Chant?
Yoga is a personal practice - whether in a class with others or at home. You
only have to do what you feel comfortable doing - this goes for physical
postures and for chanting. While chanting is beneficial on so many levels and
helps us breath, it is a personal choice. Not all of Still's classes include chanting and even
then chanting is an option. If you don't feel comfortable chanting you may hum.
You'll feel the same resonance and connection to others that chanting brings.
