Frequently Asked Questions
What is yoga?
The word yoga means "union" in Sanskrit, the language of ancient India where yoga originated almost 6,000 years ago. We can think of the union occurring between the mind, body and spirit. What is commonly referred to as "yoga" can be more accurately described by the Sanskrit word asana, which refers to the practice of physical postures or poses. The physical postures are actually only one of the eight "limbs" of yoga, the majority of which are more concerned with mental and spiritual well being than physical activity. Meditation and pranayama are two of the other eight limbs of yoga.
I have my own religious belief, will practicing Yoga conflict with my religious beliefs?
This topic has been much debated. But, specifically speaking, Yoga is not a religion, although many of its principles and teachings can be found in several of the world religions. Yoga is supportive of established world religions and existing spiritual practices by offering additional tools and practices that aim to cultivate virtues such as lovingness, compassion, goodwill and acceptance, non-violence, truthfulness, and discipline.
What to expect in a yoga class?
Each class is unique, although there are some common aspects of all yoga classes. You should expect to arrive 10 or so minutes early, to give yourself time to pay for class, take your shoes off, collect the props (blocks, blankets, straps), and to setup your mat. Classes usual start with a centering practice of mindful intention and/or breathing, the class will move through a series of yoga poses sequenced depending on the style of the teacher, and end with a closing practice, which may include meditation, but most always includes savasana, final relaxation, the ultimate of all yoga poses.
What style of yoga is right for me?
Please read the class description section of the website. Yoga Soleil aims to have a variety of styles, so each student can find the class and teacher that suits his or her needs. Try out all of our great teachers and classes.
Do I need to be flexible to do yoga?
Absolutely not. Yoga is not about being flexible, but about the process and journey towards transformation in the mind and body. It is about the spaces in between and what you learn through acceptance, practice, and breath. As some yoga teachers will attest, they could not touch their toes before starting to practice. For that matter, some still cannot and still live very full lives