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Yoga FAQ's

What is Yoga?

The word yoga means "union" in Sanskrit, the language of ancient India where yoga originated. We can think of the union occurring between the mind, body and spirit. What is commonly referred to as "yoga" can be more accurately described by the Sanskrit word asana, which refers to the practice of physical postures or poses. The physical postures are actually only one of the eight "limbs" of yoga, the majority of which are more concerned with mental and spiritual well being than physical activity. Meditation and pranayama are two of the other eight limbs of yoga.

I have my own religious belief, will practicing Yoga conflict with my religious beliefs?

This topic has been much debated. But, specifically speaking, Yoga is not a religion, although many of its principles and teachings can be found in several of the world religions. Yoga is supportive of established world religions and existing spiritual practices by offering additional tools and practices that aim to cultivate virtues such as lovingness, compassion, goodwill and acceptance, non-violence, truthfulness, and discipline.

What to expect in a yoga class?

Each class is unique, although there are some common aspects of all yoga classes. You should expect to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early, to give yourself time to pay for class, take your shoes off, collect the props (blocks, blankets, straps), and to setup your mat. Classes usual start with a centering practice of mindful intention and/or breathing, the class will move through a series of yoga poses sequenced depending on the style of the teacher, and end with a closing practice, which may include meditation, but most always includes savasana, final relaxtion, the ultimate of all yoga poses.

What style of yoga is right for me?

Please read through the different styles of yoga under the class descriptions section of the website. Yoga Elements aims to have a variety of styles, so each student can find the class and teacher that suits his or her needs. Try out all of our great teachers and classes.

What do I need to bring to a yoga class?

All you really need is your mat. You may also want to bring water and a small towel. Mats and props are also available at the studio in case you do not have these items.

What clothes should I wear to a yoga class?

Come dressed ready to move. Generally speaking, it is advisable to wear clothes that stretch, but are also not too bulky. Specifically, wear a tight-fitted shirt or tank as your first layer. Typically, you practice yoga without socks and shoes on, barefoot. Unless you have socks with grips on the bottom, you could slide around a lot on your mat, distracting you from your practice.

Can I rent a mat at your studio? ?

Yoga Elements offers mats to students free of charge.

What should I eat or drink before class?

Yoga is best practiced on an empty stomach. It is recommended to allow 2 hours after a big meal and about 30 minutes after a snack before you practice. Also, do not drink too much right before class

What is yoga etiquette?

These are general guidelines of yoga etiquette:

Show up to class 10 to 15 minutes early so you have time to setup and center;
Do not wear strong scents to class;
Speak with friends, fellow students, and teachers mindfully, generally stay quiet during the practice;
Do not wear shoes in the practice space; and
Respect each student's sacred mat space and refrain from stepping on others' mats.
If you show up late, wait until after the centering practice and until the teacher invites you in to set your mat down.

Do I need to be flexible to do yoga?

Absolutely not. Yoga is not about being flexible, but about the process and journey towards transformation in the mind and body. It is about the spaces in between and what you learn through acceptance, detachment, and breath. As some yoga teachers will attest, they could not touch their toes before starting to practice.

Which classes should I take as a beginner?

Generally, as a beginner, you will want to take classes with a Level 1 denotation next to them. These classes will provide more explanation regarding the key actions of the poses and address important alignment principles.