Soul Stretch
Yoga, Massage & Aromatherapy
Yoga, Massage & Aromatherapy
Yoga, Massage & Aromatherapy
What do I need to know before my first class?
This is a common question! Yes, you can. If you really want to change your flexibility, come to a few classes each week for a few weeks. It is very likely that your body will quickly show distinct differences, not only in flexibility, but strength and lung capacity as well. Everyone must start with their body exactly the way it is, so you only do as much of a pose as possible on any given day. Never be concerned with what someone else is able or unable to do. Each of us has had a life that has shaped us differently, both mentally and physically.
Can I do my yoga practice with an injury?
Have the instructor help you adapt the poses that are uncomfortable or inappropriate for the injured area. Even with an injury, the rest of your body still wants to move to keep joints lubricated, blood well circulated, and muscles and tendons stretched.
Am I too out-of-shape/overweight to do yoga?
Yoga is not becoming a pretzel, balancing on one foot. I do not believe there is any person too out-of-shape to begin hatha yoga. Every pose has stages which need to be respected and utilized, and you may take as long as you need in each stage before progressing to the next. It is possible, however, that some styles/sequences of yoga may feel too challenging to start with. Choose a class that feels right for you. If your body has lost vitality or you are carrying an inhibitive (by inhibitive, I mean inhibits comfortable, full range of movement) amount of weight, then beginning a restorative activity like yoga will be beneficial, but probably emotionally and physically intense. You are not too old/weak/overweight/stiff to use yoga. Begin your yoga practice today, while you read this, with consciously directed deep breathing!
How often should I do yoga?
Yoga is most effective done on a daily basis. Of course, many of us do not make time for that in our day. If you experience that it benefits you to practice once per week, continue! If you want pain relief, structural changes (posture, joint freedom, flexibility, etc.) or increased mental calm, you will need to practice more. This may seem impossible, yet, if you can do it, it will make a difference to your life.
- First time to the studio? Plan to arrive 10 minutes early.
- All classes are open to beginners.
- We accept cash and checks.
- You may arrive as early as 15 minutes before class begins. (Doors may be locked if you arrive before then.)
- Please be on time to class. If you arrive as class is beginning, please respect the other students by entering quietly.
- Mats, blankets, blocks and straps are available for your use (no fee). Bring your own if you have them.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Have your body and clothing clean. Tobacco, perfumes, or fragranced products affect the entire room, and some people are allergic to strong odors.
- Please turn of cell phones. If you are on call, or in an emergency situation, please speak to the instructor before class.
- Yoga poses will feel better with an empty (or fairly empty) stomach.
- Class atmosphere is respectful and non-competitive.
- If you're pregnant, injured, or have other health concerns, you may be able to practice. Consult the instructor.
- The benefits of yoga are cumulative; keep practicing with patience, commitment and self-respect.
- Call the instructor before you come if you have questions or want reassurance!
This is a common question! Yes, you can. If you really want to change your flexibility, come to a few classes each week for a few weeks. It is very likely that your body will quickly show distinct differences, not only in flexibility, but strength and lung capacity as well. Everyone must start with their body exactly the way it is, so you only do as much of a pose as possible on any given day. Never be concerned with what someone else is able or unable to do. Each of us has had a life that has shaped us differently, both mentally and physically.
Can I do my yoga practice with an injury?
Have the instructor help you adapt the poses that are uncomfortable or inappropriate for the injured area. Even with an injury, the rest of your body still wants to move to keep joints lubricated, blood well circulated, and muscles and tendons stretched.
Am I too out-of-shape/overweight to do yoga?
Yoga is not becoming a pretzel, balancing on one foot. I do not believe there is any person too out-of-shape to begin hatha yoga. Every pose has stages which need to be respected and utilized, and you may take as long as you need in each stage before progressing to the next. It is possible, however, that some styles/sequences of yoga may feel too challenging to start with. Choose a class that feels right for you. If your body has lost vitality or you are carrying an inhibitive (by inhibitive, I mean inhibits comfortable, full range of movement) amount of weight, then beginning a restorative activity like yoga will be beneficial, but probably emotionally and physically intense. You are not too old/weak/overweight/stiff to use yoga. Begin your yoga practice today, while you read this, with consciously directed deep breathing!
How often should I do yoga?
Yoga is most effective done on a daily basis. Of course, many of us do not make time for that in our day. If you experience that it benefits you to practice once per week, continue! If you want pain relief, structural changes (posture, joint freedom, flexibility, etc.) or increased mental calm, you will need to practice more. This may seem impossible, yet, if you can do it, it will make a difference to your life.
This very body we have,
that's sitting here right
now...with it's aches and
it's pleasures...is exactly
what we need to be
fully human, fully awake,
and fully alive.
~Pema Chodron
that's sitting here right
now...with it's aches and
it's pleasures...is exactly
what we need to be
fully human, fully awake,
and fully alive.
~Pema Chodron
