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.
Asana is only one of the eight "limbs" of yoga, the majority of which are more concerned with mental and spiritual well being than physical activity. In the West, however, the words asana and yoga are often used interchangeably.
How Do I Pick a Type of Yoga and Get Started?
If you are brand new to yoga, you may want to take a few hatha classes to learn the basic poses. Even if you are already in great shape, take a few beginner's classes to learn the poses and avoid the risk of injury. And while there are many great yoga books and videos available, there is no substitute from learning directly from a good teacher in a yoga class.
Can I Do Yoga Even Though I'm Not Flexible?
Don't avoid yoga just because you think you aren't flexible. In fact, if you have tight muscles, yoga is just the thing to loosen you up. The point of yoga is not to show off how flexible you are, but rather to become more flexible over time while enjoying yoga's health benefits. Yoga is not like gymnastics, in which the most flexible person gets a medal. It is a personal practice, infinitely adaptable to fit your needs.
Can Men Do Yoga?
Obviously, the short answer is yes. Until very recently, in fact, yoga was practiced exclusively by men. But many men are concerned that they will not be welcome in a yoga class or that they are not flexible enough to try yoga. This is a basic misconception: yoga will improve your flexibility, but you do not need to be flexible to do it. Since yoga has been practiced by men for so long, many of the poses actually make more sense for a man's body and some require a lot of upper body strength, which women often lack at first.
For inspiration, menfolk need look no further than to some of yoga's most influential contemporary teachers, such as B.K.S. Iyengar, Pattabhi Jois, Bikram Choudhury, Rodney Yee, and Baron Baptiste, to name a few.
So, it turns out the long answer is also yes!
What Do I Need To Bring?
If you have a mat, bring it and also a bottle of water. Props are available from your instructor.
Yoga Room Etiquette
Class begins promptly at the scheduled time and the doors will be locked
Please turn off your cell phone and refrain from talking while you are in the yoga room