Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT KIND OF YOGA DO YOU TEACH?

The yoga we teach is called Hatha yoga.  This is Sanskrit for union (yoga) of the sun (ha) and moon (tha). 

WHAT IS YOGA?

It is hard to explain briefly what yoga is, as it encompasses so much and evolves for each person according to their needs.  In our classes at Way to Yoga we teach pranayama (which is breathing), asanas (poses), and meditation.  Some of the benefits you may find through your practice are:  flexibility, strength, stress relief, improved balance, increased lung capacity, mind/body awareness, improved overall health, and better quality of life.

Most students comment that the first three things they become aware of after practicing for a few weeks are:  shoulders relax away from the ears during the day, jaw becomes unclenched, and breathing goes past the chest deeper into the belly.

We do not teach religion at our classes, however you may come to a deeper place spiritually as we encourage gratitude and appreciation for life.  A part of yoga is about learning to accept and appreciate who you are and finding out more about yourself by turning your awareness inward.  That being said, you can also choose to go through your practice and make it a workout without any deeper meaning - it is your practice and your choice.  We are here to guide you to what you are looking for.

WHAT CLOTHES DO I WEAR?

Wear clothes that are comfortable.  You want to be able to move around easily and breathe into your belly.  T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, sweatpants, yoga pants, stretch pants - pretty much anything other than jeans work well.

WHAT KIND OF SHOES DO I NEED?

It is best to practice yoga barefoot.  This is because you are better able to grip the mat with bare feet.  I find that some people are uncomfortable with this at first, but it soon becomes second nature to shed your shoes at the front door.  Besides, our studio is dimly lit and everybody is too busy practicing to be checking out each other's feet!

DO I NEED A MAT?

If you have your own mat, you are welcome to bring it.  We do have mats you can use at the studio, as well as props if you need them (props support your body as you go into poses, until your body opens and releases so you can go fully into the poses).