Frequently Asked Questions
What is yoga?
Yoga is much more than the misconceived notion that you must be able to touch your toes. In fact, asana (postures) is only one eighth of the practice of yoga! Ancient texts say "Quietening the fluctuations of the mind is yoga". The word yoga means to yoke or join together. We can think of this in terms of the coming together of mind, body and breath.
Is Yoga a religion?
Although yoga can be found in several religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism, yoga itself is not a religion, more a philopshy or way of life. It can perfectly complement any religion you may have.
What are the benefits of yoga?
There are so many! Here are my top 5:
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Increased flexibility and better posture
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Strengthens the body
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Improved lung function
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Increased energy
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Stress relief and inner peace
I've never done yoga before, which class should I go to?
All classes are suitable for beginners so it's up to you what fits in with your schedule! I give options in all classes for ways you can modify the practice to suit your body.
What clothes should I wear to a yoga class?
You should wear comfortable clothing that you can move in. Ideally leggings, shorts or loose trousers and a singlet or t-shirt top. Yoga is done in bare feet.
How should I prepare for a class?
It's a good idea to give yourself enough time so you don't feel rushed as you come in. Try to arrive around 10 minutes early for your class. Make sure you are well hydrated and haven't eaten a meal in the two hours prior to the class. (A light snack may be fine).
What is Hatha Yoga?
Hatha Yoga is a general term used to describe all physical forms of yoga practice. Ha-Tha means sun and moon, the merging of energies. Hatha yoga involves asana (poses), pranayama (breathing), bandhas (energy locks) as well as relaxation, meditation and chanting. The focus of the class is breath awareness and body movement. A general yoga class.
Who is Mums & Bubs Yoga for?
Mums & Bubs Yoga is yoga for mum with optional baby participation. It's suitable for postnatal mamas from 8 weeks onward. Classes focus on stretching and toning postnatal bodies with breath awareness.
Pregnancy Yoga FAQs
When should I begin Pregnancy Yoga?
I recommend waiting until around 12 weeks into your pregnancy to begin Pregnancy Yoga. This gives the pregnancy time to become established, however, should you wish to start sooner, I'm happy to accomodate you.
I’m due next month, is it too late to start Pregnancy Yoga?
Ideally it's great to have a regular yoga practice through your pregnancy to experience the most benefits but it really is never too late to start. Even a few sessions can be beneficial.
I’ve never done yoga before, is it ok to start Pregnancy Yoga?
Yes! Pregnancy Yoga has a few differences from 'regular' yoga. You definitely don't need to have had previous yoga experience to begin Pregnancy Yoga.
What do I need to bring?
A water bottle, comfortable clothing, a yoga mat (if you have one). You're also welcome to bring a small snack such as a museli bar, especially if you experience light-headedness.
What are the benefits of Pregnancy Yoga?
There are many benefits but the main ones are:
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Teaches you techniques to assist with pain management during labour
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Boosts confidence in your body’s natural ability to birth your baby
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Minimises pregnancy discomforts with gentle exercises
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Teaches breathing and relaxation techniques
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Prepares mind and body for labour and beyond
How soon after I have had my baby can I return back to yoga classes?
I recommend waiting until at least 6-8 weeks postpartum to give the body time to rest and heal. It's ideal in the first few months after baby arrives to practice with a teacher who has some specialist knowledge of postnatal yoga. If returning back to a general yoga class, I recommend waiting at least 12 weeks.
Chair Yoga FAQs
What is Chair Yoga?
Chair Yoga is a physical yoga practice where postures are done with breath awareness whilst seated on a chair and using the chair as a prop for balance whilst standing.
What are the benefits of Chair Yoga?
Chair Yoga is great for improving posture, increasing joint mobility, helping with balance, improving flexibility, strengthening and stretching the body as well as boosting the mind-body connection.
Who is Chair Yoga suitable for?
Chair Yoga is ideal for anyone but may be particularly beneficial to the elderly, those with limited mobility, desk or office workers or those new to yoga and wanting a more gentle class.
Is Chair Yoga still 'real' yoga?
Yes! Chair Yoga still follows the same principles of any other yoga class, the connection of mind, body and breath.
Do I need a yoga mat for Chair Yoga?
No yoga mat is required for Chair Yoga unless you would like to bring one to rest on for the final relaxation portion of the class. All chairs and other props are provided.