Aadil Palkhivala, one of the foremost yoga teachers in the world, said it best, “Yoga doesn’t care about what you have been; yoga cares about the person you are becoming.” So, what’s keeping you from becoming you?
Yoga Body Shop, the area’s original hot Yoga studio, doesn’t want it to be a lack of knowledge or understanding of the practice. For this reason, we are sharing some of our most Frequently Asked Questions from new yogis.
What IS Yoga?
Yoga is a practical aid, a system of physical and mental practices that improves your health and well-being. In simple terms, Yoga is a system for bringing balance into your body and mind. The practice of Yoga is over 6,000 years old and makes the body strong and flexible. It enhances the functioning of the respiratory, circulatory, digestive, and hormonal systems. Yoga brings about emotional stability and clarity of mind and is a tool to realign and rebalance your body regularly.
So many teachers and styles, where should I start?
Beginner Hot Yoga helps a beginner become comfortable by attaining a high level of self-awareness, balance, and strength. The Beginner Hot Yoga Classes break down the poses to assist in foundation and alignment. The classes provide the benefits of normal Yoga with the added benefit of heat. Yoga in the heat eases the tension building in your muscles, allows your muscles to stretch and lengthen more, and even helps lubricate your joints for a better range of motion. Get started and get your sweat on!
But I’m not fit like the models in the pictures?
Some may only see pictures of super-fit models promoting Yoga in twisted, high-core balanced postures, but Yoga is truly for everyone. You do not have to be thin or fit into spandex to practice. The Yoga community at Yoga Body Shop is inclusive and welcoming.
What if I’m not flexible…like, at all?
There is a connection between Yoga and flexibility but being flexible is not a qualification for practicing Yoga. Over time, Yoga will help you become more flexible. That’s why we practice. You don’t have to be an acrobat or a gymnast to get started, just start where you are.
Am I too old to do Yoga?
Yoga is for everyone, regardless of age, size, gender, ethnicity, or fitness level. You may be afraid you can’t do the poses, won’t be able to follow along, or will feel clumsy; however, Yoga is not a one-size-fits-all activity. The practice is intended to be unique to you, your capabilities and your journey.
Is Yoga just about stretching?
Yoga is about more than stretching. In a typical yoga class, you go through a series of poses that can look and feel like stretching. But the physical element of Yoga is just a piece of the bigger picture. Balance, coordination, static strength, flexibility, and mindfulness are all benefits of practicing Yoga. Yoga is considered a practice rather than a workout.
While you could allow fear of the unknow stop you from becoming you, as Jill Badonsky is quoted to say, “Breathe in a feeling of courage, breathe out and move past your perceived limits.” Join the Yoga Body Shop community this month to allow yourself boundless possibilities. We are here to help you successfully navigate your journey of self-discovery, and explore your potential, both physically and mentally. Review the upcoming class schedule to see when the process of opening your world begins.