New to Yoga?

There is a common misconception that yoga is only for flexible people, or for people who are naturally capable of doing the poses with ease. 

This couldn’t be further from the truth.  Yoga has something to offer every body; regardless of your current level of strength or flexibility, yoga is for you. 

The aspects of a yoga practice that you find difficult are precisely the things that you need to work on for your body in order to create that ideal balance we are all after.

The word “yoga” means “yoke” or “union”:  union of mind and body, and union of breath and movement.  In a yoga class, you will find yourself moving your body through different poses, called asanas, requiring full focus of your mind on every aspect of your body. 

Breath is also an integral component to a yoga practice.  Movement is based on the pattern and pace of the breath.  On inhalations the body is typically expanding, and on exhalations the body is releasing.  It’s possible to find conscious breathing while performing the poses difficult at first, but with practice it becomes quite natural.

In Hatha Yoga, the ultimate goal is to balance the body, and steady the breath, thereby stilling the mind.  Full focus of the mind is required in all of the poses, creating a sense of presence and calm at the end of class that many students simply can’t find elsewhere. 

You’ll find you leave class with an overall sense of well being. 

Essentially, a yoga practice can become a forum for many things, physical and otherwise.  Class is an opportunity to challenge yourself in a safe and comfortable setting, and to consciously practice the skills and abilities to take the lessons learned on the mat, into your daily life.