What is yoga?
Yoga is a system of wellness to improve the functioning of mind, body and spirit. It can include:
· Physical postures and exercises
· Breathing techniques
· Relaxation techniques
· Guided visualization
· Awareness and focus practice
How can yoga help me?
· Increases flexibility
· Strengthens muscles
· Improves balance
· Improves posture
· Improves lung function
· Improves joint health
· Nourishes intervertebral disks
· Strengthens bones
· Promotes weight loss
· Lowers blood pressure
· Improves the function of the nervous system
· Relieves pain
· Improves psychological health
· Leads to healthier habits
(According to Timothy McCall, M.D.)
What doesn’t yoga do?
Yoga and yoga therapy is not a replacement for your doctor’s care, physical therapy or psychological counseling. Yoga does not treat acute injuries or severe mental illness.
What does holistic mean?
A holistic approach means that the relationship between different areas of the mind, body and spirit are recognized. For instance, it could mean that instead of just treating neck and shoulder pain, we look at overall body posture and what your work environment is like. Or, instead of treating high blood pressure with only a pill, yoga teaches breathing, stretching and relaxation techniques for overall wellness.
Is yoga a religion?
No. Yoga is a system of wellness, not a religion. It can and is practiced by people of many faiths. There is no worshiping in a yoga practice. At the AJYOGA studio, every person’s religious and philosophical background is honored and respected.
What is Yoga Therapy?
Yoga Therapy is about getting the quality of life you want. It’s about improving your wellness. More than taking a pill, it’s taking control. “Yoga Therapy is the process of empowering individuals to progress toward improved health and well-being through the application of the philosophy and practice of yoga.” (International Association of Yoga Therapy)
Do I have to be flexible before I start yoga?
No. Yoga meets you where you are, not where you think you should be. Yoga helps increase comfort, range of motion and flexibility.
Do I have to know yoga already to take a class or benefit from yoga therapy?
Absolutely not. Where you are is where we start.
What do we do in a class?
Class structure and content are dependent upon the type of class. Most classes, though, have three parts: warm up, work and cool down. Within these three parts, classes address strength, flexibility, balance, focus and breathing. Everyone practices within his or her comfort level.
What do we do in a private session?
Our practice consists of a menu of yoga techniques chosen together to address your concern, your lifestyle and your intentions.
Techniques can include:
· Physical exercises or poses for stretching, strengthening and/or relaxing
· Breathing
· Guided visualizations
· Deep relaxation
· Awareness and focus practice
How long does it take for yoga to work?
Many people get a sense of relief from the very first session. Some goals require a thorough wellness plan with each yoga session improving your overall health.
Is yoga good for weight loss?
Yoga can indeed promote weight loss as part as a healthy lifestyle via moderate cardio work and strengthening. At the same time, it helps you understand the difference between goals (what you want) and intentions (what you are willing to do to meet your goals). Yoga also finds positive ways to address body image issues and negative self talk, while accepting where you are today. Awareness practice helps clients learn the difference between being hungry and not being full, recognize unhealthy habits without judgment and build a healthy lifestyle.
Do I have to buy stuff?
Yoga mats, blocks and straps are available to use at the studio. However, many people prefer to buy their own mats.
I see a class I’m interested in, but it’s already started. Is it too late to join?
Late enrollment is welcome as along as space is available. Please call for availabilities. The fee will be prorated according to the number of classes remaining in the session.
What is your refund policy?
Once enrolled, there are no refunds for withdrawing once the session has begun. 100% refund is available ONLY if you withdraw at least one week before the session begins. This policy is firm.
There are no refunds for missed classes or private sessions. Missed classes can only be made up within the current session. If you miss a class or private session, you may attend a different class if there is space available in that class. You must call ahead to confirm availability.
If a class is cancelled by the instructor, every attempt will be made to set a make up date. If a make up date is not possible, a refund or credit will be given for that class only.
Are gift certificates available?
Yes. Please call to discuss your needs.
