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Q: What is Yoga?
A: Yoga is a profound system of holistic health that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It was first put into written form as the Yoga Sutras. The author was Patanjali (pronounced "pa-tan-ja-li"). Since the original work was in Sanskrit, there are many translations and interpretations. Yoga is defined in the sutras as having eight limbs or branches. It is the third limb "Asana" (pronounced "a-san-a"), which refers to postures or Yoga poses that most people perceive as yoga. The study of Asana and physical culture is called Hatha Yoga (pronounced “Ha-ta” with a soft “T”). It is quite possible that there are more people doing Hatha Yoga now in the state of Arizona than in the entire country of India.

 

Q: Do I have to do those challenging poses in a yoga class?
A: Certainly not. But in the Anusara* system of Yoga, practitioners are greatly surprised to learn how the body, through practice, can gain the strength and flexability to execute the postures they thought they could never do! Many, however, prefer to remain in classes that are presented with the focus on the "basics", and therefore aren't as physically challenging as other classes. If advice is needed, please ask us, we would prefer to take the time to make sure you are placed in a class you will enjoy more.

Q: How often should I go to a Yoga class?
A: Ideally, at least two or three times per week. Some people keep their life on track and make some progress by coming once a week, and many people get really motivated by Yoga and come everyday. It depends on the individual and his or her needs.

Q: Is Yoga Co-ed?
A: Yes, on the average there are more women in yoga classes than men, however some of the classes have almost an equal ratio these days.

Q: What is "Yoga Therapy" or "Yoga for Healing"?
A: A simple answer is that Yoga Therapy is usually offered one on one, or in small groups for people that are not able to participate in a regular group class. Some of the many ailments successfully treated with Yoga Therapy are: lower and upper back problems, hypertension and heart disease, asthma and diabetes and more recently fibromyalgia and arthritis. It is also great for rehabilitation from surgery, injuries, etc., because it builds strength from the "core" and muscles develop evenly.

 

Q: What are some of the benefits of yoga?
A: Perhaps the first and most profound benefit that most practitioners notice, is stress reduction. Among other benefits are; increased circulation, stronger immune system, stronger heart rate, blood pressure in normal range, weight correction. Yoga postures (asanas), are also good for strengthening the body from the "core" and "opening" the body, providing increased flexibility. Once one's system comes closer to balance, most practitioners notice an increase in vitality and an all-over sense of well-being. They are also sick less often and recover more quickly when they are sick. They are less affected by negativity, and the actions of others. The benefits of Yoga do not necessarily occur overnight but the results are lasting.

Q: How much does Yoga cost?
A:
An average class price is $7-$10 a class in a series. A one-time drop-in fee is $10-15.00. If it's your first time: $10.00. Check out our Complete Price List.

Complete Price List

Q: How long should a Yoga class be?
A: All classes at Forest House are one and one half hours because of the care given to instruction of breathing techniques, meditation and deep relaxation as well as yoga instruction

Q: Is Yoga safe?
A: In most cases, yes. However, if you select the wrong level of difficulty in a large group class and have some physical limitations, you could have some problems. It is very important to be sure you are in the right class and inform the instructor of any potential problems.

Q: How do I find the right place to take a Yoga class?
A: The most important thing to consider is the overall environment that you feel comfortable in. There are currently no city, state or federal guidelines for Yoga. There is a wide spectrum of environments in Yoga classes. The biggest differences are between the the levels of physical difficulty within the various classes. You need to decide if you want your Yoga class to be a workout, a work-in, or somewhere in-between. A good Yoga class should incorporate the concept of body, breath and mind. In no case should you allow someone to push or intimidate you into doing something that does not feel intuitively right.

Q: What do you wear to a Yoga class?
A:
There is a wide variety of clothing worn in Yoga classes, depending on how physical the class is and the temperature of the room. Women often wear leotards, ot tights. Men often wear shorts or cotton pants. Clothing should be close-fitting for modesty purposes, as your limbs will be in various positions. Most teachers prefer the student to wear closer fitting clothing, so the posture is quite visable-since the structure of the posture is what basic principles of alignment are based upon. Clothing is much more comfortable when the fabric is natural, and streches or gives, has no belts, buckles, zippers, buttons, etc. However, yoga clothing, like that of other fitness classes, is also a personal expression.