I've never done yoga before, what do I need to know?

We all start where we start, so it's important to come in with an open mind, practice at your own pace, and try not to compare yourself to others. Our instructors will provide clear and helpful instruction, but they are just guides. You are your best teacher. Listen to your body and honor its shape, age, strengths, and weaknesses. Do not force through any pain (even if you did it just fine the day before). Every pose and moment is a whole new experience, and you will determine how you approach the challenge. With time and patience, you'll discover more comfort, confidence, and connection with a consistent yoga practice. You got this!

What should I wear to class?

Wear anything that's comfortable and breathable, like athletic wear (yoga pants and shorts are popular for a reason). Really, anything is fine just as long as you don't show your naughty bits. 

What Do I Need to Bring for a Class?

We provide complimentary yoga mats sweat towels as a courtesy to our 1st time students, and they are available for rent for everyone else. Please bring your own if you have one, as we highly encourage investing in your own equipment. If you use one of our studio mats, please place them in the bin outside of the door after class so that our staff can clean them properly. We also provide high quality yoga props, so check the teacher's mat before class to see what you may use that day. Finally, bring a sealable water container for hydration!

Which classes are for beginners?

If you want a slower pace: we recommend Rooted or Restore for your first class. However, we encourage you to take any class that you feel called to.  Many of our classes are all level practices, but it is encouraged to let your instructor know that you are a beginner. After class, you can talk to your instructor about what other classes might work for you. Also make sure to inform your instructor of any injuries or limitations. Note that during any class, you should move at your own pace and listen to your body.  Please let your instructor know if you need a different posture offered to you during class.

How often do I need to come yoga to get better or see results?

Depending on the person, goals, etc., desired results will vary, but there are definite, positive short- and long-term effects one can experience during and after their first class. We usually recommend between 3-5 classes per week, because the more you practice the more you become aware of how the poses feel to you, as well as the power of your breath, the increased mind-body connection, and other nuances. Be sure to share your goals/desires with our staff, because we definitely want to help you set realistic goals and offer all the support we can!

What does it mean when the teacher says Vinyasa?

A vinyasa is the mindful movement between poses, accompanied by controlled breathing. Sometimes the teacher interchanges "vinyasa" with the flow from plank, to chatarunga, to updog, and then downdog, but this movement can be modified and/or skipped if you desire. All we ask is for you to concentrate on your movements, even if it's dropping to child's pose or grabbing a sip of water.

Does your studio offer childcare or classes for children?

We love when parents share their love of yoga with their children, but our studio does not offer childcare.

Does your studio offer pre- or post-natal classes? 

Yoga is a powerful tool to use through pregnancy to prepare for the birthing process, and it's one of the best ways to heal your body and help restore balance to your life afterwards. Although our studio does not offer specific pre- or post-natal classes, we do offer one-on-one prenatal private yoga sessions as well as prenatal massage. Please know that all of our classes will benefit moms and moms-to-be once given a few modifications and tips. Most of it is obvious, like avoiding or limiting twists and compression poses that may restrict blood flow to the uterus, pushing yourself too hard, and not listening to your body/intuition. If in doubt, just don't do it, find an alternative, and/or focus on breath work!

Can yoga provide a high-intensity workout?

Definitely! Even our Rooted and Restore classes can be high-intensity. You can be as active or as relaxed as you want to be in any of the classes we offer. The instructors will often offer modifications to decrease or increase the difficulty of a posture. 

If I'm not flexible, how am I able to practice yoga?

As a practice, there's much more to yoga than being flexible. Just like most things, flexibility comes with time, effort, and discipline. It's perfectly fine that you're not flexible. You can still do yoga. And the more you do, the more flexible you will become!

How does yoga reduce stress and anxiety?

Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines physical poses, controlled breathing, and meditation or relaxation. Through the consistent practice of yoga, stress and anxiety can be reduced by teaching yourself to relax the body and mind, learning to breathe more effectively, developing and understanding the connection between the mind and body, and releasing emotional energy. 

Does practicing yoga go against my religion?

All faiths are welcome on the mat, and you will be given opportunities to honor and enhance your current belief system. Our teachers utilize universal language and their personal experiences to illustrate their understanding of this practice, and we tend to favor the influences that unite all life, initiate healing, promote self-inquiry, and support a service-to-others lifestyle. So if your religion is against that...well, you may need to ask yourself why?  

If you have any further questions feel free to as any member of our staff, or schedule a private session with one of our instructors.