Y OGA is a science (5,000+ years old) practiced as an art. YOGA is a Sanskrit word meaning “union” or “bring together” – it is an ancient practice of self-discovery, uniting the body, mind, and spirit; finding the “oneness” that exists at the core of every being. YOGA is NOT a religion. Our Western culture has embraced YOGA as a fitness tool. The physical practice of YOGA (Hatha) balances strength with flexibility and tones the muscles along with the vital organs of the body. It is non-competitive and always geared to your personal needs at that particular moment. This will make sense as your practice matures. Practice is the term used for “doing” yoga; one never masters it. YOGA is a phenomenal tool used for self-discovery. While practicing yoga – LISTEN to your body. Focus on your breath and allow your body to speak to you. If something hurts, don’t do it. General Structure of the yoga class 1) Centering: Settling in and connecting with your breathing, state of mind & body 2) Warm-ups: Warming muscles & joints for an effective & safe session 3) Postures (asanas): Learning alignment, strengthening & toning 4) Cool Down: Stretches to further improve flexibility 5) Deep Relaxation (savasana): The time to rest focusing on the breath and relexation How to prepare for class 1) Have a sense of humor. You will find yourself in positions you never thought possible. That's where the sense of humor comes in. Yoga is non- competitive. Yoga is not about being perfect in a posture: that's why we call it "practice." 2) Wear comfortable clothes that will not come over your head if you bend over, or split when we do leg stretches. Yoga is done with bare feet so you stick to your mat and are able to feel the floor and maintain balance. A hand towel is good to have as well. 3) Avoid eating less than two hours before class. It’s smart to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. 4) To help you learn and to keep you from being injured, we may come around to do hands-on adjustments. If you are not comfortable being touched, please let us know quietly or with a gesture to keep from disturbing others. 5) Yoga is non-competitive—it’s all about YOU—how you feel—it’s your chance to be totally selfish. It is okay to rest whenever needed during class; we’ll show you some great poses to do so.