FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1)
How does Power Vinyasa Yoga differ from other forms of yoga?
Power
Vinyasa Yoga is a unique sequence of postures aimed at strengthening
the mind-body connection. Its hallmark is the emphasis on intuition
over tradition. With its roots deep in classical yoga, it keeps its
finger on the pulse of our time. You will not find a better workout,
physical or spiritual.
2)
Does yoga give my body as much of a workout as if I go to the gym?
YES!
More than you can imagine. Exercise such as lifting weights is good
for strengthening your muscles and running for strengthening your
cardiovascular system. Athletics can offer a lot of strengthening,
but usually cause negative physical adaptations. Power Vinyasa Yoga
is a method to experience the vitality, strength, and healing power
of working with the body as a whole. You will experience
a new sense of being, a new quality of awareness, and an inspiration
to live life to its fullest. All you have to do is show up. You don't
need any previous experience or knowledge of yoga.
3)
How many times a week should I practice?
For
good results, 3-4 days a week. For life-changing results 5-6 days
a week. For total transformation, 7 days a week.
4)
What class is best for me?
If you
are a raw beginner, our Basics class is a great introduction. The
temperature is lower, and emphasis is on the fundamentals, including
demonstrations. If you are looking for more intensity, with emphasis
on flow, the All Levels class is recommended. If you are looking for
a challenge, but feel like you are not ready for the 75- or 90-minute
All Levels class, try the Hour of Power.
5)
What if I'm not that flexible?
It's
a common misconception that yoga is about contorting your body. In
fact, Vinyasa Yoga is a system of breathing that encourages adaptation
and modification to accommodate each of us as we are. Flexibility
is not a goal, or a prerequisite of yoga; it is a by-product. As Carl
Rogers says "the curious paradox is that when I accept myself
just the way I am, then I can change." The spirit of flexibility
gives you physical maleability. The attitude of strength gives you
real muscle.
6)
What should I wear/bring to class?
You
should wear light clothes that wick away sweat, such as dry-fit or
lycra. Avoid baggy T-shirts that are likely to fall over your head
when you bend over. You will be barefoot in class. We recommend you
bring your own sticky mat and props (straps, blocks, etc). You will
sweat a lot, so we recommend you bring a towel that covers
your whole mat. We provide props such as blocks and straps and we
have mats and towels for rent, and water for sale.
7)
Should I eat before I come to class?
An empty
stomach is ideal, but if you need to eat, fruit or a light snack is
fine. A general guideline is no big meals less than 3 hours before
class. But really, everyone is different, so listen to your intuition.
8)
I'm pregnant and thinking of trying Power Vinyasa Yoga. Is
it safe for pregnant women?
As
with any exercise program, the two general rules of thumb are to check
with your physician and to listen to your own body and heed any warning
signs that you are in a danger zone either for injury, overheating or
overwork. Having said that, Power Vinyasa Yoga can be practiced by
anyone, as long as modifications are done to accommodate for any
individual's issues. If you had a strong practice before you became
pregnant, it does help. It's usually not a good idea to start a yoga
practice as a beginner when you're pregnant. There are some poses such
as inversions and lying on the belly that are contraindicated for
pregnancy. As we practice in a heated room, it is best to discuss with
your physician your interest in starting or continuing your yoga
practice when you are pregnant.
9)
Is there a minimum age requirement?
Our minimum age requirement is 14 years old. We ask that children aged 14-17 are accompanied by an adult guardian.