Frequently Asked Questions
What is Yoga?
This one might be best explained by what yoga is not....
It's not just bending and stretching, it does not require you to be able to wrap yourself up like a pretzel or stand on your hands. It does not require you to wear lululemon tights or to become a vegan.
It's not a religion, it's based on a system of philosophy (called Samkhya) which originates in India. You could say yoga is the science of awakening to our innate potential.
Primarily yoga seeks to help us become steady stable human beings, both in body and in mind.
How do we get there?
There are a wide range of techniques, but most people start with the physical postures (asana). The postures are used to help leverage and shape our breath, which we then use to access the mind. Meditation is a significant aspect of yoga practice and is completely intertwined with the end goal of liberation (freedom from our conditioned suffering and limited understanding of self).
To advance in yoga practice is to move towards deeper and deeper states of meditation.
What style of yoga do you teach?
These days I'm most commonly sharing teachings from the ancient tradition of the Himalayan Sages. It's referred to as Tantric Hatha Yoga but is also interweaved by Classical Patanjali (8 Limb) Raja Yoga and the ancient Indian system of healing and wellness (Ayurveda).
Expect the practice to include posture (asana) practice, breath work, meditation, chanting, philosophy and in some cases the more advanced techniques of bandha and mudra.
It's not a fast paced practice and is undertaken at a comfortable room temperature. Not all classes are suitable for all individuals so if you are not sure which class to attend please get in contact.
What is Tantra?
The word Tantra, can be derived from the following Sanskrit root words:
Tan – to lengthen, stretch or accelerate
Tra – to move beyond limitations
Therefore it can be considered as a philosophical system/science to expand beyond all of your personal limitations.
The worldview of tantra states that:
- the body is a universe unto itself, a reflection of the larger universe of which we are all an integral part
- the universe and all that is within it is inherently sacred
- in order to truly know yourself and the world you must remove the walls that appear to seperate spirit and matter
- if you understand how to systematically enter your body and harness its powers, your body can be an ally to spiritual awakening.
Unfortunately in the west, the word 'Tantra' has been largely misappropriated. Type Tantra into Google and you'll see exactly what I mean! Much of what is being shared as tantra today has little to nothing to do with the ancient tradition of Tantric Hatha Yoga.
Will I lose weight if I do yoga?
Yoga has numerous benefits such as increased strength, flexibility, stability, reduced stress and improved posture however practicing yoga alone is not a guaranteed path to weight loss. Yoga encourages a healthy lifestyle and is also effective in disciplining the mind, this can help with proper nutrition and the avoidance of foods that make us feel rubbish.
How often should I do yoga?
Starting yoga is similar to beginning any new physical activity, moderation is best while your body adjusts to the new patterns of movement and muscular effort. In the beginning its best to start with two or three times per week, then you can slowly increase from a strong foundation. Many people find that once they start practicing yoga the desire to practice more regularly naturally grows.
If you have a busy schedule that only allows one class per week then that time would still time well spent, just one hour a week will start to make a difference.
Can I practice yoga if I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant it is recommended that you first consult with your doctor. Many women continue to practice yoga throughout their pregnancy as many of the poses remain accessible or have suitable variations. If you are pregnant and will be attending a class then please inform the teacher prior to class commencing so the relevant guidance can be provided.
This one might be best explained by what yoga is not....
It's not just bending and stretching, it does not require you to be able to wrap yourself up like a pretzel or stand on your hands. It does not require you to wear lululemon tights or to become a vegan.
It's not a religion, it's based on a system of philosophy (called Samkhya) which originates in India. You could say yoga is the science of awakening to our innate potential.
Primarily yoga seeks to help us become steady stable human beings, both in body and in mind.
How do we get there?
There are a wide range of techniques, but most people start with the physical postures (asana). The postures are used to help leverage and shape our breath, which we then use to access the mind. Meditation is a significant aspect of yoga practice and is completely intertwined with the end goal of liberation (freedom from our conditioned suffering and limited understanding of self).
To advance in yoga practice is to move towards deeper and deeper states of meditation.
What style of yoga do you teach?
These days I'm most commonly sharing teachings from the ancient tradition of the Himalayan Sages. It's referred to as Tantric Hatha Yoga but is also interweaved by Classical Patanjali (8 Limb) Raja Yoga and the ancient Indian system of healing and wellness (Ayurveda).
Expect the practice to include posture (asana) practice, breath work, meditation, chanting, philosophy and in some cases the more advanced techniques of bandha and mudra.
It's not a fast paced practice and is undertaken at a comfortable room temperature. Not all classes are suitable for all individuals so if you are not sure which class to attend please get in contact.
What is Tantra?
The word Tantra, can be derived from the following Sanskrit root words:
Tan – to lengthen, stretch or accelerate
Tra – to move beyond limitations
Therefore it can be considered as a philosophical system/science to expand beyond all of your personal limitations.
The worldview of tantra states that:
- the body is a universe unto itself, a reflection of the larger universe of which we are all an integral part
- the universe and all that is within it is inherently sacred
- in order to truly know yourself and the world you must remove the walls that appear to seperate spirit and matter
- if you understand how to systematically enter your body and harness its powers, your body can be an ally to spiritual awakening.
Unfortunately in the west, the word 'Tantra' has been largely misappropriated. Type Tantra into Google and you'll see exactly what I mean! Much of what is being shared as tantra today has little to nothing to do with the ancient tradition of Tantric Hatha Yoga.
Will I lose weight if I do yoga?
Yoga has numerous benefits such as increased strength, flexibility, stability, reduced stress and improved posture however practicing yoga alone is not a guaranteed path to weight loss. Yoga encourages a healthy lifestyle and is also effective in disciplining the mind, this can help with proper nutrition and the avoidance of foods that make us feel rubbish.
How often should I do yoga?
Starting yoga is similar to beginning any new physical activity, moderation is best while your body adjusts to the new patterns of movement and muscular effort. In the beginning its best to start with two or three times per week, then you can slowly increase from a strong foundation. Many people find that once they start practicing yoga the desire to practice more regularly naturally grows.
If you have a busy schedule that only allows one class per week then that time would still time well spent, just one hour a week will start to make a difference.
Can I practice yoga if I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant it is recommended that you first consult with your doctor. Many women continue to practice yoga throughout their pregnancy as many of the poses remain accessible or have suitable variations. If you are pregnant and will be attending a class then please inform the teacher prior to class commencing so the relevant guidance can be provided.