What is Yoga?

Yoga was originally developed in India over 4000 years ago as a way to achieve spiritual enlightenment. Nowadays, the focus is often on the more down to earth benefits of Yoga, including improved physical fitness, stress control, better mental focus and general well-being. The wonderful thing about Yoga is that it is truly Holistic, incorporating elements to work on the mind, body and spirit. Practitioners can focus on the physical, psychological or spiritual benefits of Yoga, or all of the above.

Is Yoga a Religion?

Yoga is not a religion, but a way of life which helps those who practice it to balance the nervous system and still the mind through its various exercises, from asanas (postures), pranayama (breath control) and meditation. Yoga seeks to put you in touch with your inner self, who or what you truly are. 

How is Yoga different from normal exercise?

Yoga focuses more on the process than the goal. Asanas (postures) are done with awareness and concentration on what is happening inside your body and mind. You are not competing with anyone when you do Yoga, but working entirely to your own limits - both physically and psychologically. 

Do I need to be flexible to practice Yoga?

No! Yoga will help you to develop your flexibility. The essence of Yoga is about working in harmony with your body and accepting, without judgment where you are at any given time. Come as you are and you will find that Yoga will not only help you to improve your flexibility, but also your strength, coordination, cardiovascular health together with an overall sense of well-being.

Will Yoga help me to reduce weight?

Yoga is not a weight loss programme. However, you will look and feel better if you practice Yoga regularly, eat healthy food and drink plenty of water. The Yoga postures and Pranayama will help all processes of the body to function more effectively including digestion and elimination. In addition, Yoga will help to tone muscles and to improve posture.

What should I wear?

Comfortable clothing that you are able to move about in freely. You should avoid tight constricting clothing, particulary around the waistband. Yoga is best practiced barefoot. It is important to bring something warm like a jumper, fleece or rug to cover up the body during the relaxation part of the class as the body can chill down very quickly as you lie still. 

Is it okay to eat before Yoga practice?

In Yoga classes we twist, bend and stretch the bodies in ways that would be uncomfortable if you have not fully digested your last meal. Ideally you should not eat for two to three hours before a Yoga class. If you are afraid that you will get hungry or feel weak, try a light snack such as yoghurt, or a few nuts about 30 minutes to an hour before class.