New Students
One misconception surrounding the practice of yoga is that flexibility is a prerequisite. It is important to respect our body's limitations-flexibility will come about naturally as long as you stick with it. Through each pose and movement, you will feel tensions subside and stress fade away. This is what is important, not the ease in which you can touch your toes.
We invite you to experience our yoga classes with an open mind. Our philosophy is simple and our process uncomplicated- you won't be asked to learn Sanskrit or chant, nor will we make you feel like you are in a boot camp. We provide an atmosphere of respect, safety, and support, and our goal is to encourage our students to challenge themselves toward achieving better physical and emotional health and wellness through their yoga practice.
Tips for Beginners - Attending your First Yoga Class
- Come to class 10 minutes before start time.
- After your initial class, don’t stress about getting there on time. If you are late just walk in and place your mat in the back of the room.
- Please don’t eat at least two hours before class.
- Bring a towel, you will sweat!
- Wear comfortable clothing that is not too baggy, you will have your head upside down for downdog.
- Please hydrate yourself during the day. It’s best not to drink while practicing.
- Have FUN!
About Hatha Yoga
Ha=Sun
tha=Moon
Yoga=to yoke or unite
Hatha yoga's primary purpose of practicing is to unite opposites and
to bring greater balance into our lives.
The practice consists of asanas and pranayama and savasana. Ashtanga and Sivananda Yoga are types of Hatha Yoga.
Asanas or postures teach us to balance with effort and ease thus
teaching us to carry this balance into our everyday world. How we
handle our practice on the mat is what teaches us about ourselves.
Our practice is meant for us and only us. Hatha Yoga is not a
competition. It is life practice.
Pranayama is all prana or breath. Prana is vital life, which is
important for vitality and calming the mind. Sivananda Hatha yoga
will teach you how to use your breath to the fullest as
well as control powerful breath in everyday life.
Savasana or relaxation will teach to let go. This is the hardest
pose for so many people because to still the body also means quieting
the mind. Letting go is another yet powerful practice to yoga!
Sivananda Hatha Yoga will teach one to let go of stress and be free of
anxiety thus bringing balance to life.
Recommended Reading
Ashtanga Yoga "The Practice Manual" by David Swenson
This is the most user-friendly yoga book available! It contains the entire Primary and Intermediate series of Ashtanga Yoga with three options for every asana. It is spiral bound to easily remain open while practicing. It contains over 650 photos with clear instructions and commentary.