Frequently Asked Questions

Yoga is an ancient Eastern Indian system of balancing body, mind and spirit. The goal of Yoga is to have a peaceful, clear mind in a sound, healthy body.

Named after its founder, B.K.S. Iyengar, the Iyengar tradition is renowned for its attention to precise anatomical alignment and correct muscular action. It is also known for its use of props such as blocks, belts, yoga ropes, chairs, bolsters and blankets, to help educate, deepen and lengthen the practice of postures.

The Yoga postures (asanas) work each part of the body to release and lengthen muscles, increase fluidity in the joints, and promote flexibility of the entire skeletal system. They benefit the internal organs, glands, and nerves as well.

The asanas are done with deep, controlled breathing, which enhances the flow of oxygen to the brain and body, erasing stress and increasing energy, thus creating a sense of well-being.

It is important to realize that Yoga is not an exercise but a series of postures that relate to all the systems of the body. Some postures can be assumed quicker, others require much practice before the muscles are supple enough. Perform each movement slowly and gracefully, avoiding strain. You should be seeking poise and suppleness and a consequent relaxation of mind and body. You will not be required to attempt advanced postures before you are ready. Yoga postures can be tailored to all levels, from children through senior citizens, as well as the physically challenged.

Regardless of age or condition, improved flexibility, balance and posture can be achieved by almost anyone as a result of the practice of Yoga. Research has credited Yoga with lowered blood pressure and increased lung capacity. Yoga postures affect all systems of the body – circulatory, digestive, nervous and endocrine.

Yoga is highly recommended to alleviate back pain flare-up and as an alternative method to maintain back care. Yoga is recommended for asthma, arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes and scoliosis. Yoga has also been used as part of stress reduction programs that significantly opened coronary artery blockages in heart patients. Stress can lead to many common diseases and its reduction is vital for health and longevity.

The following preparations should be made when taking a class:

• Please arrive early enough for class to take care of sign-in, especially at your first class since you will need time to fill out a form and get to know the space.
• If you should arrive late, please enter very quietly and sit until beginning meditation is over before you unroll your mat and prepare for class.
• Please remember to remove your shoes BEFORE entering and not to wear shoes anywhere inside the studio in order to keep our space clean and sacred.
• Please turn off all cell phones and pagers. Please put them on silent, in this quiet space even the vibration of a cell phone can be disturbing to all.
• Please remove unnecessary jewelry prior to class. Excessive jewelry can be both a hazard and a distraction.
• Although we do provide mats for students just starting out, it is recommended that you purchase your own mat as soon as possible.
• Please no gum chewing or candy in class as it is both a choking hazard and prevents complete relaxation.
• Please come to class with an empty stomach at least two hours after eating (unless medical reasons prohibits); be prepared to practice barefoot; wear loose-fitting, non-restricting clothing.
• Heavy perfumes can irritate those with allergies so please refrain from wearing them when possible to the studio.
• Please do not attend class if you have an illness that is contagious, as a courtesy to your fellow classmates and teacher.
• Please hang or place garments (coats, shoes, etc.) in spaces that are provided for them in the lobby.
• If you would like to bring your own props such as a mat, strap, block, blanket, please put your name or initials on them.
• Please let your instructor know if you have any new injuries or conditions before class starts.
• Please always feel free to ask questions!!

Renowned Iyengar Teacher Aadil Palkhivala explains the meaning of Namaste as follows...

The gesture Namaste represents the belief that there is a Divine spark within each of us that is located in the heart chakra. The gesture is an acknowledgment of the soul in one by the soul in another. "Nama" means bow, "as" means I, and "te" means you. Therefore, Namaste literally means "bow me you" or "I bow to you."

To perform Namaste, we place the hands together at the heart charka, close the eyes, and bow the head. It can also be done by placing the hands together in front of the third eye, bowing the head, and then bringing the hands down to the heart. This is an especially deep form of respect. Although in the West the word "Namaste" is usually spoken in conjunction with the gesture, in India, it is understood that the gesture itself signifies Namaste, and therefore, it is unnecessary to say the word while bowing.

For a teacher and student, Namaste allows two individuals to come together energetically to a place of connection and timelessness, free from the bonds of ego-connection. If it is done with deep feeling in the heart and with the mind surrendered, a deep union of spirits can blossom.

Ideally, Namaste should be done both at the beginning and at the end of class. Usually, it is done at the end of class because the mind is less active and the energy in the room is more peaceful. The teacher initiates Namaste as a symbol of gratitude and respect toward her students and her own teachers and in return invites the students to connect with their lineage, thereby allowing the truth to flow—the truth that we are all one when we live from the heart.