Dare to ask
Feeling energized, being fit, dealing with stress, a moment for yourself, reducing back or neck pain, out of curiosity, getting to know yourself, improving your breathing, trying something new, stopping fretting, being in the now... Whatever the reason, any reason is the right one to start yoga, it enriches your life.
Yoga helps find balance physically, mentally, emotionally and energetically.
Is yoga a religion?
No. Yoga is an ancient Eastern philosophy of life that aims to connect body, mind and spirit. Can you still do yoga as a Christian or Muslim? Absolutely! It has to do with spiritual development, but this does not mean that you can no longer believe what you want. On the contrary, it brings you closer to your "self" through increased awareness. Yoga philosophy has common ground with Hinduism and Buddhism, but you don't need to know these to practice yoga. I personally believe whatever religion, I'm sure goes along with the philosophy behind yoga.
Is yoga a kind of fitness?
It is a fact that many people are attracted by the physical benefits. However, there is only one similarity and that is movement. And even in that, yoga is unique because each yoga practice gets a deep effect with the help of breathing and concentration. So it should not be seen merely as a workout but as a practice. Of course it will look a little easier on some than others, but don't let this deter you. You are doing it for yourself. The purpose of yoga is to calm the mind, open the heart and stimulate our individual development.
Do I have to be vegetarian to do yoga?
No. Whether you eat meat or fish, you decide for yourself. Everyone is free to do what they want. What is true is that yoga and vegetarianism do connect and many yogis skip meat and fish simply because it makes them feel better. Vegetarian food is also very healthy and delicious.
Is performance anxiety out of the question?
Yes, yoga is about the experience, not performance. It is not at all about how perfectly you perform the exercise but what it does to you. For your own enjoyment and to prevent injury, we ask you to accept your limits. Never push yourself. Perform the postures to your own ability. You can challenge yourself a bit but acknowledge your limits. If the exercise hurts, this is not ok, it is rather about a pleasurable stretching.
When can I drink water?
Before and after class it is best to drink plenty of water. Drinking water before class supports the cleansing effect that yoga initiates. Drinking water after class replenishes body fluids. We strongly advise against drinking water during class because it cools down the body.
Can I eat something before class?
Yoga is best practiced on an empty stomach. In the twisting postures and the forward and backward bends, any meal will only get in the way. Moreover, we generate energy in yoga. So eating interferes with the upward energy we are trying to stimulate.
A light meal is best taken up to one hour before class. By the way, feeling hungry or weak during class is not nice either. If you haven't eaten much, have a light snack, such as: yogurt, some nuts or a fruit juice. But a half hour before yoga you should definitely not eat anything else.
What do I put on?
Especially comfortable clothing in which you can move well. Anything that pinches or is too loose will distract you. Shoes are not necessary because yoga is practiced barefoot.
What do I bring to class?
A yoga mat provides you with a soft surface and grip for your hands and feet. It is more comfortable and hygienic to have one yourself but I can bring one for the first lesson.
A pillow does come in handy to place under the seat in the lotus position to sit a little higher to stay in the lotus position a little longer or to place under the head when relaxing.
Bring something warm, possibly a blanket, socks or a sweater along for during relaxation.
Is yoga floaty?
No. Indeed, some people think yoga is some kind of floating cult. You couldn't be further from the truth. Of course there are "certain characters" running around in the world of Yoga, but that has nothing to do with what Yoga is and what it can do for you. There are an awful lot of forms of Yoga and some are a little more spiritual than others. Some people may consider this to be woolly at first. It's just what your preference is.
I also want to become limber. I feel stiff, how do I become limber quickly?
You don't have to worry at all! It's not about performing. The fact that you can twist yourself into all sorts of corners is nice, but in yoga the experience is paramount. Yoga has no right or wrong. So what is it about? About awareness and mastery. In other words, yoga is about learning to listen to your body and guarding boundaries. Don't compare yourself to others. Everyone works at his or her level and pace. Change only begins when your body or mind is ready. Be gentle with yourself. Your muscles are sure to lengthen and joints become more flexible.
Care to give it a shot?
Want to know what all yoga can help you with?
Yoga is there to bring out the best in you, throughout your life, and it starts right where you are right now.
What you can't try out, you can't experience.
That's why I offer you a free trial class.
I'd love to meet you!
