FAQ

 NEW TO YOGA? Just start where you are. You do not have to be flexible or strong enough to do yoga. Respect & listen to your body and you will honor your practice. Leave your inner critic by the door and have fun! 

If you do not find an answer to your question, please contact us!

What is Yoga?

Yoga is an ancient (4000+ years) time-tested systematic practice for human growth and development that can bring fulfillment to one’s life. So, yoga is a philosophy, a science and a way of life. The Sanskrit term means “yug” or yoke/union, becoming whole. Often it is said that this union refers to the mind-body-spirit balance, the link between unit and universal or the meeting of the finite and infinite. It is a practice, not a belief system, and many people practice yoga for its healing benefits for the mind and body. Some practice yoga for its positive physical benefits only. It is your choice as to how you want to embrace this ancient practice.

What is a Yoga Asana?

Asana (pose) is a Sanskrit word which literally means “seat”. The early yogis wanted to explore the vastness and wonders of the human mind, so they would sit in silent contemplation or meditation for hours, weeks, months and years! To help with sore bodies and wandering minds, the yogis devised a system of physical postures known as asanas designed with the idea of rejuvenating the body as well as calming the mind.

What are some benefits?

Many!! Here are a few: Increase flexibity, balance and strength, calm the thoughts, increase circulation and lung capacity, lower heart rate, better alignment, decrease blood pressure, reduce toxins in the body etc! One learns to not only bend forward and backwards more easily but also feel more balanced and centered mentally. The asanas along with breathing with the movements and mindful awareness rejuvenates and restores both body, mind and spirit.

What kind of yoga do you teach? 

It is a distillation of many different styles and lineages.  In general, it can be called Hatha Yoga with emphasis on alignment and using the breath with movement, praynayma (breathing techniques) and meditation.

How would you describe a class?

Each class begins with a centering, followed by warmup postures usually in a seated position, followed by standing, balancing, stomach and back poses. Soft music is sometimes played and assists are offered. Class ends with  sivasana, resting pose, and a mindful closing.

How do I pay for the donation based class?

A suggested donation range is given for different classes. You simply give what you can.  A   container is available by the door for your donation. You may pay with cash or check (made out to Yoma Yoga). Further explanation can be found under Donation Based Yoga.

What should I wear and bring to class?

If possible, bring your own yoga mat which is best for hygienic purposes. Loaner mats will be available.  Wear comfortable clothes that you can easily move and stretch in and bring a water bottle.  Yoga is practiced in bare feet. Non-slip toe socks can be worn. It might be helpful to have a small towel or eye pillow.

Do I need to sign up for a class?

Sign-up is usually required for a series class and for the workshops and retreats.  If no sign-up is necessary,  just show up at 10 minutes early to set up for class. Check the Adult tab for schedule of classes.

What if I have never done yoga before?

Great! Just let the teacher know before class and ask questions if the instructions are not clear.  Also, advise the teacher of any physical conditions, so she can suggest modifications if needed.

What does yoga etiquette mean?

It is mainly an awareness to be conscious of your yogi and yogini neighbors. Therefore, please do no wear strong perfumes or scents, be punctual, wait to enter the class if the opening centering/meditaion has already begun. Turn off all electronics, remove your shoes before entering class in a yoga studio, and, if you must leave early, depart quietly before the beginning of savasana. But, try to stick around for the most important pose…savanasa!

What if I have some medical issues or injuries?

No problem….just let the instructor know before class begins. She will suggest props and modifications. Chair yoga can be offered for those who are not comfortable getting up and down from the floor.

I would like to gift a friend with the Foot Soaking & Meditaiton class…how can  I do that?

Just contact sharon@yomayoga.com or call 919-444-3436 to make arrangements for a gift certificate.

What does Yoma Yoga mean?

Long story (!) but the short version is a play on Om & Oma and the name allowed for the adult & child size yoga figures (“all ages”) to be the logo.  🙂

I am not in very good shape, can I try yoga?

YES!  Yoga is for every body…you do not have to be strong or flexible enough to do yoga…you just need a flexible mind! Therefore, we leave our inner critic at the door and enjoy just being who we are in the moment.

What does Namaste mean?

Class usually ends with the traditional Sanskrit word Namaste. It is translated literally as “I bow to you”. It is more commonly translated as “the divine light in me honors the divine light in you.” It is a gesture of respect and honor.

What does Om mean?

Om is a mantra often chanted during yoga classes for its vibrational quality. It is the universal sound, which represents the collective sound of all the vibrations in the universe.

What language is the yoga instructor using sometimes?

Sanskrit is the ancient language that was first used with yoga. If a teacher calls the pose in the Sanskrit name, she will usually follow it with the english translation. If not, you can ask the instructor for an explanation.

Anything else to know?

It is recommended to refrain from eating a heavy meal 2-3 hours before class so your digestion is complete before class begins. If you have a very active digestive system, a light snack might be tolerated 30 minutes to an hour before class. And, the teacher welcomes any comments, questions, suggestions and/or critiques. This will enhance your yogic experience and the instructors.