Information About Yoga

The Interesting Bit . . .

Here’s some information you will find helpfull if this is your first adventure into Yoga.
What is Yoga?
Yoga began thousands of years ago in India and has become popular in the Western World to harmonise mind, body and emotions.
Definition of Yoga
Yoga is a generic word (such as health, fitness) and means union (from the root Sanskrit verb: Yug ~ to join).
It is often interpereted as the union of mind body and soul and can provide perfect harmony and balance.
Hatha Yoga
Hatha Yoga is generally interpreted as the Yoga of physical action and is the style practised in most Western Yoga classes.
Hatha also means balance - Ha means the sun and Tha means the moon and can represent male and female energies.
Hatha Yoga classes may consist of the following elements:
* Relaxation
* Limbering Postures
* Classical Asanas (postures)
* Breath Awareness
* Meditation
* Theory and Philosophy

The Practical Bit . . .

 What are the  benefits of Yoga?
By regularly practising Yoga you may notice the following effects:
*Increased feelings of vitality and strength
*Feeling ‘balanced’ and ‘light’, with increasing ‘awareness’
*An ability to relax, concentrate and meditate
*A more effective digestion
*Improved suppleness and general body muscle tone
In summary we use postures, breathing and relaxation to help alleviate the stresses and strains of modern life.
Do I need any special equipment?
A non slip exercise mat long enough for your entire body to rest on comfortably. 
A soft warm blanket is also useful for relaxation time.
What Should I wear?
You need to feel warm and relaxed so comfortable exercise clothing such as leggings or jogging bottoms with a t-shirt or vest top are ideal.  A second layer is also handy for warm up and quiet times.
Should I eat before a class?
As with any physical activity it is best not to practice on a full stomach - wait at least 4 hours after a full meal and 2 hours after a light meal.
You may want to bring a bottle of water to your class.

The Boring But Necessary Bit . . .

 A few things to be aware of!
There are certain practices that are prohibited for anyone with certain medical conditions. Some postures are offered with a precaution or modification to suit certain ailmements.
Please complete the Student Questionnaire and bring to your first class.
Medical details will be treated in confidence.
Class Etiquette.
Yoga is our own time so please:
Respect your fellow students need for a quiet and  peaceful environment. 
Try to arrive before the class begins - unexpected interruptions can be off putting.
Please switch off mobile phones.