What does “yoga” mean?
Yoga is a Sanskrit word that means “to yoke” or “to unite”. As a practice, it is a scientific system for achieving total health, mental, and spiritual well-being — a means to unite the body, mind, and spirit.
Can beginners attend classes?
Absolutely. We all start somewhere. Come as you are, and we will provide a space that nurtures and supports you on your yoga journey.
How often should I practice?
Ideally, yoga is meant to be a daily practice. As that is quite overwhelming to a beginner, we recommend you set a goal you can realistically keep. Consistency is the key—it’s far better to attend one class per week than to overdo it and then stop practicing all together. The more you practice, the more benefits you are likely to realise, resulting in a gradual increase in practice time and a resulting increased sense of health and well-being.
Can I practice yoga if I am really stiff and inflexible?
Yes! You are a perfect candidate for yoga. Many people think they need to be flexible to begin yoga, but that’s a little bit like thinking that you need to be able to swim in order to take swimming lessons. Come as you are and you will find that yoga practice will help you become more flexible.
This newfound agility will be balanced by strength, coordination, and enhanced cardiovascular health, as well as a sense of physical confidence and overall well-being.
What if I can’t do a pose?
Yoga is about baby steps, we must crawl before we can walk and walk before we can run. Modifications are available to suit all ability levels. Yoga is non-competitive in nature and best practiced for oneself, — honouring your body and doing what is best for you—not forcing yourself into a shape that you aren’t ready for.
Is yoga a workout? Will I lose weight?
The answer depends on the style of yoga you select, as well as the frequency and intensity with which you practice. Although the focus in yoga is about balance, healing, and reconnecting, a regular practice will not only open your mind and offer a fresh perspective on life, but it also will absolutely change your body. While not an intense aerobic workout, it does burn calories as you create strength and cultivate flexibility along with greater range of motion in the joints. Just as important, as you move into an improved state of well-being, you will make choices off the mat that also improve your health.
Is yoga a religion?
Yoga is a philosophy, not a religion. While it can have a spiritual component, it is complementary to all religions or none in particular as it teaches universal principles such as compassion and peace. It has been practiced by individuals of widely differing beliefs and any and all people are welcome at yoga mindset. To benefit from yoga it helps to be open to the knowledge there is always more to learn and being open to releasing old habits that tie us down. At the heart is the openness to see we have not yet tapped into our highest potential as human beings. Yoga seeks to put us in touch with our spiritual core—our innermost nature and that which we truly are.
Do I need to bring anything?
To begin practicing yoga the basic requirements are to be present in body and mind with a healthy dose of curiosity. It will also be helpful to wear a pair of yoga leggings or shorts, and a t-shirt or tank top. Yoga is generally practiced in bare feet. It’s nice to have a towel with you although it’s not mandatory. Mats and yoga props are provided but as your practice develops you might want to buy your own yoga mat.
OK. So I am ready to take my first class, what is the next step?
Prior to the first session, participants will submit an enquiry from the website, outlining what service they would like to sign up for. If unsure, Yoga Eclectic will call to discuss various options in more depth. Next, a health screening form will be sent prior to the first session to gain a better understanding of individual limitations and preferences. Payment is required at the start of the first session and payment amounts / options will be outlined in more detail after an enquiry is submitted. The location of each session is flexible and will take place either in a space requested by the participant (such as their home) in Yoga Eclectic’s space, or in an outdoor setting (weather permitting).
We are excited to welcome you to the yoga community.
If there is anything you are unsure about, please talk to us.