Q: What style of yoga do you teach?
A: I teach basic hatha yoga; each class begins with some breathing exercises before gently moving the body through the poses. Most poses are held for several breaths to allow the body to stretch and release. Every session ends with Savasana (relaxation pose). I often use props (including blocks and straps) to make a pose more accessible or more enjoyable. Most student say the session was exactly what they needed - you move at your pace and in ways that best suit you.
I do not view yoga as simply a form of physical exercise; it is so much more. The physical benefits are side effects and you may be challenged to try poses you feel are difficult or even impossible, you may also be encouraged to slow down a little and listen more deeply to the needs of your body.
Yoga is about meeting the body where it is and I work hard to honor that in each student.
Q: I have aches & pains in my joints, how can yoga ease the pain?
A: As your body learns to move slowly and the various muscle groups stretch and gain flexibility you may well find you experience less pain in your joints. Yoga's gentle movements encourage greater blood flow which lubricates the joints and makes it easier to move. Many students find they are able to move more easily, back pain lessens and even disappears and "suddenly" realize the little nagging pains are gone.
Yoga sets no standard or expectation - it meets your body where it is at any given moment. That means you move in ways that best suit your body and at a pace that is safe and healthy for you.
Q: What is the difference between hot yoga and your classes?
A: Hot yoga is often a set series of flowing poses done in high temperatures (often up to 100*). Our room is a comfortable 68-72* and there is no set routine to follow. Each class and the poses offered are based on the needs of those present. We tend to move more slowly through the postures with a strong focus on the breath and mind.
Q: What is the difference between yoga and pilates?
A: I am not a pilates teacher and have taken only a few classes so I cannot really answer this question properly. In my limited experience pilates works to strengthen the body and especially the core muscles that give us stability and help to keep us pain free. In many ways, I felt pilates moves were similar to certain yoga poses and there is certainly some overlap.
Yoga tends to focus deeply on the breath and the mind-body connection and, while there are many physical benefits to yoga, these are not necessarily the goal of practicing yoga. I have found that many yoga poses strengthen the core muscles and most students find their bodies grow stronger and more flexible in even just a few classes.
