Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is yoga?

A: The word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word ‘YUJ” which means to yoke or bind and is often interpreted as “union”.

The Indian sage Patanjali is believed to have collated the practice of yoga into the Yoga Sutra an estimated 2,000 years ago. The Sutra is a collection of 195 statements that serves as a philosophical guidebook for most of the yoga that is practiced today. It also outlines eight limbs of yoga: the yamas (restraints), niyamas (observances), asana (postures), pranayama (breathing), pratyahara (withdrawal of senses), dharana (concentration), dhyani (meditation), and samadhi (absorption). As we explore these eight limbs, we begin by refining our behavior in the outer world, and then we focus inwardly until we reach samadhi (liberation, enlightenment).

Today most people practicing yoga are engaged in the third limb, asana, which is a program of physical postures designed to purify the body and provide the physical strength and stamina required for long periods of meditation.

Q: Can anyone do Yoga?

A: Yes, absolutely anyone can practice Yoga. With no restrictions, at your own pace and level and it is a very welcoming activity and promotoes positive psychology as well as many health and physical benefits. Yoga is not just about the asana (postures), it is so much more and can help support modern day living.

Q: Do I need to be flexible/fit/strong/young/thin etc. etc. to practice Yoga?

A: Not at all. If you are already reading these questions and you have a keen interest in bringing yoga in to your life then let’s get started. You are a perfect student for yoga, and believe me you aren’t the only one thinking that they need to be any of the above to begin.

You will more than likely find that your yoga practice will help you become more flexible, fitter, stronger, with a balanced weight, better co-ordination, body awareness, increased cardiovascular health and an overall physical and mental well-being. There are 100 year old Yogi’s and Yogini’s in the world, it’s never too late to begin, but it is too late if you don’t ever begin.”

Q: Do I need to be religious?

A: Not at all, Yoga is not a religion. Indian scriptures, estimated being written 5,000 years ago, provided a basis for spiritual growth within the physical and mental body. Yoga often brings elements of other philosophies such as Hinduism or Buddhism in to the practoce, but it is not necessary to follow those paths to study yoga.

It is important to know that it is not necessary to surrender your own religious beliefs to practice yoga.

Q: What should I bring?

A: All you really need to begin practicing yoga is your body, your open mind, and a bit of curiosity. It’s nice to bring a towel to class with you. As your practice develops you might want to buy your own yoga mat, but most studios will have mats and other props available for you. Wait and see if you enjoy it before you make expensive purchases of clothing or a mat. Come along to a class (there are spare mats and props to use)

Q: What do I wear?

A: Comfortable, free movement clothing; but not too baggy as this disguises your alignment, which is very important in your Asana (Postures); for example leggings, gym wear, shorts, tee shirts/vests. Men are kindly asked to wear a top in class please.

No footwear or socks are required as you will be barefoot on your mat. You may wish to bring a sweatshirt or jumper/blanket to put on during Savasana (final relaxation) at the end of class.

Q: Why are there so many breathing exercises?

A: With high-speed everything these days, it’s really hard to slow down and watch your breath. This is precisely why we do it. We focus on our breath to keep us safe in poses, calm the nervous system, focus our thoughts and practice meditation. All of these reasons are at odds with our super-charged lifestyles that burn us out.

Q: What about Meditation?

A: Most of our classes include some meditation time within the sequence and this may be at the start or at the end of class. It is your time to become aware of your mindful state and enter a state of calm.

Q: What if I have an existing injury?

A: Please seek advice from your GP and always inform your teacher of any ailments, illnesses and injuries and any advice that you have been given from a medical professional.

Q: Why should I refrain from eating 2 hrs. before class?

A: Our bodies are In yoga practice we twist from side to side, turn upside down, and bend forward and backward. If you have not fully digested your last meal, it will make itself known to you in ways that are not comfortable. If you are a person with a fast-acting digestive system and are afraid you might get hungry or feel weak during yoga class, experiment with a light snack such as yogurt, a few nuts, or juice about 30 minutes to an hour before class.

Q: How often should I practice Yoga?

A: It’s possible to replace with the word ‘could’. We all live very busy lives and fitting anything new in to our lives can be hard at times, even a little bit of practice every day could be fulfilling and beneficial. Take it as it comes and practice more when you need to.

Q: How much is a class?

A: Class prices are listed within the ‘Schedule’ page. Payment is thankfully received in cash at the beginning of class or you can use Bank transfer after making a class booking.

We also offer a convenient and cost saving block of ten classes payable in advance.

Please contact us for 1-2-1 private tuition as these range in price dependent on location and duration.

Q: When can I begin?

A: Right away. Please contact us by phone or email if you wish to get in touch and discuss your Yoga, or come along to one of the classes on the schedule tab taking place each week. Classes can become booked up, therefore please let us know you will be coming. I’m feeling a bit shy about coming along on my own…?
I understand completely, but you’ll be in good company. Lots of students come along on their own and make friends when they arrive. No need to be shy – there’s a warm welcome waiting for you!

Q: What if I am late for class?

A: To minimise disruption to the other students we are not able to allow late entry to class and we ask you arrive 5 minutes before the start. This is especially important if you are new and have an injury or illness that the teacher would need to be aware of. If you arrive late please wait until after we finish meditation and we begin to start moving before entering the class.

Q: Do men do Yoga? Is Yoga for men?

A: Yes, absolutely. Traditionally the majority of Yogis were men being taught one to one or in very small groups by a male teacher. While there were women teachers of Yoga and women Yoginis they were relatively few. It is only since the renaissance of Yoga in the last 100 years that men have become the minority in classes. However, around the globe there are millions of men enjoying, and often surprised by, the positive effects and benefits that Yoga can offer.

Not only do men feel better from these benefits but the effects can reach wider with improvements in concentration, relationships, and in the work place. Come and try out any of our classes or feel free to have a chat with any of our teachers any time about which class is right for you.