YOGA
Yoga can increase your flexibility, improve your balance, decrease your cholesterol,reduce the risk of heart disease and decrease blood pressure. There is a vast and growing body of research on how yoga improves health concerns including chronic pain, fatigue, obesity, asthma, irritable bowel syndrome, weight loss, and more.
The number one question we hear is, do I need to be flexible to do yoga?
Thinking you have to be flexible to do yoga is like saying you are too dirty for a shower. Plus, if being flexible is a goal, yoga can help. But, there are many components to yoga and you do not have to be flexible to practice.
Can anyone do yoga? Is it for me?
Yes, we promise! If you are interested in it, then it is for you! The two biggest misconceptions are both very extreme. One is that yoga is hippie, new age, spiritual stuff or that it's insane postures that few will ever achieve. There is some of that out there, but we always say what each person needs from a practice is different, so it's wonderful to have many styles and many teachers.
Is Yoga a religious practice?
NO, yoga is not a religion, it is also not necessary to renounce your own religion to practice yoga. Yoga is a philosophy that began in India 5,000 years ago. Basically, yoga provides a framework for growth and mastery over the physical and mental body and it is complimentary to most religions. Yoga sometimes interweaves other philosophies such as Hinduism or Buddhism, but it is not necessary to study those paths in order to practice.
Is it ok to eat before Yoga?
This depends on you and how your body works. Many tend not to eat, but others prefer to eat. You may need to experiment on this one for yourself. Historically it is recommended that you fast or wait 3-4 hours after consuming food to practice. We believe this is a personal choice and each person is different.
What should I wear to a Yoga class?
It is most important to wear items that you feel comfortable in and that don't show parts of the body that may distract you or others. BUT consider that you don't want to wear items so loose (overly baggy shirts) that in downward dog it slumps over your head. Go for comfort and practicality. It is also important for guys and gals with longer hair to use a hair tie.
How is yoga different from other exercises or activities that I have tried or currently do?
The truth and best/most honest answer is that yoga is not just physical exercise for the body. It offers meditative benefits and creates deeper self awareness. There is an emphasis on coordinating breath and movement creates a "moving mediation" that is incredibly beneficial.
How often should I do yoga to see and get results?
This varies for each person. The most important thing is to just get started so you can answer that question for yourself. A gradual progression is best. If you are new to yoga you may notice changes from practicing once a week.
Will I shed weight practicing yoga?
Yes, but not in the conventional way that cardio contributes. Yoga is exceptional for toning all of the muscles. Yoga is different and if losing weight is the only priority then biking or running would be more effective. Yoga is not for calorie burning it is transformational and focuses on mind body connections. Yoga creates an awareness that helps with self-control and discipline.
Is Yoga only for Vegans and Vegetarians?
Nope! What you eat is a personal choice and you should eat what makes sense to you.
Is learning Sanskrit required to do Yoga?
No, not at all. Many yogis find Sanskrit to be an undeniably beautiful language. Yet, at Fusion we focus is on being an effective communicator in the language that students speak and understand. We may refer to poses in English then Sanskrit based on appropriate it is for the class.
What is Yoga? What does it mean?
The word yoga is from the Sanskrit word yuj which means yoke or bind and is often interpreted as "union". A male who practices yoga is called a yogi, a female practitioner, a yogini.
Will the rest of the class notice me because I am a newbie to a yoga practice?
No, not at all! Most people keep their eyes on their own mat, they are/were just like you once and they are there for the same reason you are, for the cultivation of their own yoga practice.
What do I have to bring to a yoga class?
Your smile, all necessary equipment is available for rent. If you have a favorite mat, bolster or strap feel free to bring it along.