Yoga FAQs
1. What is yoga?
Yoga unifies the mind, body, energy and breath. It has a special quality that makes it very different from Western 'workouts'. Yoga gives you both fitness and an inner strength, clarity and calm.
2. What are the benefits of yoga?
On a physical level yoga helps to tone and strengthen the body and improve flexibility. It also helps to improve breathing, energy and metabolism, increasing your fitness levels and bringing a general sense of well-being. Practising yoga is also a great way to develop strength and flexibility to complement other forms of exercise such as running, cycling, football and swimming.
Yoga has mental benefits too. As you practice you begin to feel more balanced, emotionally calmer, and more connected to your body. Yoga encourages self-confidence and helps you to focus your energy.
On a spiritual level, yoga teaches you to be aware—aware of what is going on inside and outside of you, to be present in your surroundings and in the present moment.
3. I am not flexible; can I do yoga?
Yes. Inflexibility makes you a perfect candidate for yoga. You will be amazed how flexible you can become in just a few classes, making your life generally easier. All bodies are different, so anatomy and previous injuries will influence this.
4. What should I wear?
Clothes that you can move freely in. You will not need any footwear.
Bring something warm to put on afterwards.
5. I have injuries, aches and pains. Is yoga suitable for me?
Yes. Yoga can be practised with injuries, aches and pains but please tell your teacher about your injuries or problem areas. There are always modifications that can be made to asanas which might otherwise aggravate an injury, or to accommodate a physical health problem that may make some positions inaccessible.
6. I am overweight. Can I do any of your classes?
Yes. Although losing weight should not the goal of yoga, if you need to, it is a good side-effect. Size and shape have nothing to do with yoga. The media image of yoga is not a reflection of reality.
There is no posture you will not be able to achieve and gain something from. You will not be judged in any of our classes.
Please see the class timetable, call 01395 224207, email info@hands-onhealth.co.uk or drop in to Hands-on Health at 16 Victoria Road, Exmouth for more information.
