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Frequently Asked Questions about YogaWhat is hatha yoga? Hatha yoga is physical yoga and produces numerous physical benefits, however, yoga also balances the body, spirit, and mind. The word yoga means ‘union’ and yoga demonstrates the connections among the body and the breath and the mind. Slow, deep breathing while practicing yoga calms the mind and releases stress in the body. The focus on the breath is extremely important in yoga and so during the practice of yoga poses, or asanas, attention continuously returns to the breath. Hatha yoga is physical yoga. Yoga is an ancient system of self care which dates back 5,000 years. Its goal is to balance the body, spirit, and mind. The word yoga means ‘union’. Yoga is a form of exercise based on the belief that the body and breath are intimately connected with the mind. Slow, deep breathing during yoga calms and soothes the mind. By controlling the breath and holding the body in steady postures, or asanas, yoga creates harmony. The asanas are designed to ease tensed muscles, to tone the internal organs, and to improve flexibility of the body’s joints and ligaments. Each asana has its own set of benefits. I am not flexible. Can I do yoga? If you are not flexible that just means you don’t have as far to go to feel the stretch. If you are feeling it you are doing yoga. There are many versions of the poses for less flexible people. We use props such as folded blankets, blocks and straps to help you get into a pose. Each body has a different genetic makeup and life experience. Yoga is not about aesthetics, preconceived ideas or competition, it’s about sensation. What are the benefits of practicing yoga? Benefits include: learn to relax and focus the mind, release physical and mental tension, enhances breathing capability, corrects posture, balances vital bodily functions, builds strong muscles, balances the strength and flexibility of both sides of the body, releases deeply rooted tension, increases overall flexibility, increases resistance to stress, increases poise and equanimity, improves balance, remove negative thoughts; still the mind, breathe for health and vitality, improves concentration, become more calm and centered, think more clearly by quieting mental static and create a relaxed alertness, stimulates circulation, aids digestion, complements chiropractic care, lessens the effects of arthritis, remove the metabolic wastes and increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to cells, leaves you energized and refreshed! How often should I do yoga? Yoga will give you the greatest benefits if you incorporate it into your daily life. For example, when stress builds up during the day, try some breathing techniques. Think of standing straight, but relaxed as in yoga class, instead of slouching as you wait in the checkout line. Ideally you should develop your own daily practice. Do a few poses after you wake up or when it best fits into your routine. Am I too old to do yoga? You are never too old to do some form of yoga. The yoga poses can be adapted to each person’s level of strength and flexibility. The gentle movements of yoga are ideally suited to elderly people. Each individual moves into a pose until they feel a comfortable stretch, no further. Yoga is about opening up and enlivening parts of the body. Yoga is done very slowly, so there is very little risk of injury. Is hatha yoga a religion? Hatha yoga is not a religion. Hatha yoga is physical yoga. (There are other types of yoga which do include spiritual aspects.) Yoga is a very ancient practice and during its long history has been used by people of many different cultures and religions. Many Hindus practice yoga and some Americans still equate hatha yoga with Hinduism, but hatha yoga is nondenominational. Buddhists also practice yoga, it creates strong, supple and healthy bodies so that they can sit comfortably for hours in meditation. Now Americans are practicing yoga and adapting yoga to fit their own needs and lifestyles. In ancient texts the word yoga is used in the name of many spiritual practices. Raja yoga, for example, is a set of philosophical and moral principles. Classes at Natural Pathways to Health will only cover hatha yoga which is physical yoga. What if I’m pregnant? Yoga can help you have an easier, healthier pregnancy and delivery. Practiced slowly and gently, yoga postures relax and strengthen the body, allowing you to adjust to many of the temporary physical changes. The pranayama, or yogic breathing exercises, help make the most of your breath. Please inform the instructor before class if you are pregnant. How much does it cost? Each of the classes are a six week series of classes for $50. Missed classes can be made up by attending one of the other classes during the six weeks and sometimes make up classes are offered near the end of the six week sessions. certified yoga instructor, Karen Flagg 770-598-0644 |