How much are classes? $12 per class, $50 for 5 or $95 for 10, or $80 for a Monthly Unlimited pass. Prenatal classes are $75 for 6 or $15 drop-in, on a space-available basis. We prefer that mothers-to-be sign up for a series to maintain a safe, consistent practice.
Can I lose weight practicing yoga? Certainly. Vigorous styles of yoga like Ashtanga and Power Vinyasa build muscle tone, which helps your body burn fat even after you step off the mat. More importantly, though, a regular practice enables us to ‘hear’ the body’s signals, to tune into what it needs. You won’t want to eat Twinkies after a healthy, sweaty class. Our goal is wellness for the whole person — body, mind, spirit — so that we can live our lives to the fullest and make the world a better place. Yoga butt is but a perk.
Is yoga safe? Will I be sore? It’s important to remember that yoga is a process, with no end goal other than increased awareness and peace. There’s a good reason we’re called Practice… that’s what it’s all about, whether you ever stand on your head or not. Follow the teacher’s cues, but if you listen closely to your body’s signals, stay with your breath and take breaks when necessary, you’ll be safe in the postures. Some soreness is common for beginners, as you discover tight or little-used “parts.” Post-class hydration is important.
I’ve never done yoga; can I still come? Yes, many of our classes are appropriate for beginners, depending on your level of fitness. We suggest starting with Ashtanga for New Beginners or Beginners Vinyasa. See class descriptions for more information.
Should I eat and drink before class? Avoid coming with a very empty or full stomach. We suggest a light meal or heavier snack two hours before class, perhaps a light snack, ie., a piece of fruit, 30 min. or so before class if you have a blood-sugar condition.
What should I wear? Should I bring anything? Wear comfortable, light clothes you can move in. They don’t need to be skin-tight but shouldn’t be so loose that they’ll get in your way. Bring a yoga mat if you have one. We have mats at the studio, but it’s best to have your own. We’ll even store it for you. Bring water and a towel, especially if attending a Hot Yoga class. We have blocks, straps and other props, but feel free to bring those, too.
How often should I take class / practice? Our practices are as varied as our bodies. If you’re new to yoga, a couple of classes a week is appropriate, with at least a day between to let your body rest. After you’ve learned the foundations of safe alignment and breathing, you’ll need – and likely want – to practice most days. Consistency is key: A few sun salutations each day will do you more good than an intense 2-hour practice once a week. Of course, classes are essential for progress and for soaking up the energy that only community can offer. Most importantly, do what you can with focus and intention.
Do you offer private classes? Yes. We offer personalized private instruction for individuals and small groups, on or off-site. Fees depend on length and location of class and number of students. Call 937.321.7676.
What’s Ashtanga? Most of our classes are based on traditional Ashtanga yoga, an ancient system that synchronizes the breath with a fixed series of postures. Its rhythmic pace produces intense internal heat and purifying sweat that detoxifies the body and balances the nervous system. The result is improved circulation, a light, strong body and a calm mind.
What’s Vinyasa? Simply the linking of movement with breath. For every movement, there is an inhale or exhale. A vinyasa sequence is a series of postures that flow seamlessly with the breath, engaging and uniting body, mind and spirit. Our Vinyasa classes incorporate Ashtanga postures in varying sequences that build strength, balance and flexibility. Vinyasa classes are sometimes called “flow” or “power” yoga.
Ashtanga and Vinyasa classes are more physically challenging than most other Hatha styles, but ours are always safe and adaptable to most fitness levels. We offer beginning, advanced and open-level classes. Check class descriptions to see which is right for you.
What’s with the funny-sounding words and OM sound? Sanskrit is the ancient language of yoga and an essential element of traditional practice. Using Sanskrit names for postures and chanting the Ashtanga invocations connects us to yoga’s deep history and is a way to honor the long line of teachers who’ve handed down its traditions.
OM is known as the sound of creation, or the universal vibration. It represents the merging of the individual with the infinite, the wholeness union that is yoga. If that’s a bit much to swallow, consider it a way to help calm the mind; the vibration in the throat and head even helps clear sinuses!
By no means is anyone required or expected to chant in any class.
