FAQ
What is Yoga?
The word Yoga means to yoke or bind and is often interpreted as a “union” of the mind, body and spirit.
What type of yoga do you teach and in what setting?
I work with a wide range of students in different settings, including private 1:1 sessions, couples, studio classes, and senior centers. I teach everything from vinyasa and power yoga to yogalates, yoga nidra, chair yoga, gentle yoga, and guided meditation. I love adapting my teaching style to meet people exactly where they are, no matter their age, experience, or mobility level.
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When we start working together, I like to get a sense of where you’re at in your yoga journey, whether you’re just starting out, have some experience, or consider yourself advanced. I also want to know what goals or areas you’re excited to explore next. This helps me tailor the session to fit your needs perfectly, so you get the most out of our time together in a safe and supportive way.
Before booking a session, it’s also helpful to consider what you want to get out of the experience, relaxation, movement, stress relief, or something else. Think about the vibe: music or silence, indoor or outdoor, warm or cool space? Consider session length, do you have a proper mat or props for your practice? Most importantly, do you have any injuries or limitations I should know about to keep the practice safe and supportive?
What do I need to bring to a yoga class?
All you really need to begin practicing yoga is your body, an open mind and a positive attitude. Yoga is not just about physical postures but also a mental and spiritual practice. However, a mat and yoga blocks are helpful in practicing safely.
How often should I do yoga?
The frequency of your yoga practice needed to see results can vary depending on your goals, current fitness level, and the intensity of your practice. Even practicing yoga once a week can offer mental and emotional benefits such as stress reduction and improved mindfulness.
Pay attention to how your body responds to your yoga practice. Some people benefit from daily practice, while others may prefer every other day . Find a schedule that feels sustainable and enjoyable for you.
Can I practice yoga if I have joint issues or an injury?
Yes, you can practice yoga if you have joint issues or an injury, but it's important to approach it mindfully and with guidance tailored to your condition.
If you are concerned, consult your healthcare provider before starting yoga or any exercise program. They can provide guidance on what movements are safe and beneficial for your condition. Be sure to communicate any of your concerns and guidelines with me prior to your class and listen to your body during practice.
By practicing yoga mindfully and with awareness of your body's limitations, you can enjoy the benefits of improved flexibility, strength, and relaxation, while also supporting joint health and recovery from injury.
Can pregnant women do yoga?
Yes, pregnant women can practice yoga, but it's important to approach it safely and with modifications suited to each trimester of pregnancy. Prenatal yoga, which is specifically designed for pregnant women, focuses on poses and breathing techniques that can help support the body during pregnancy and prepare for childbirth.
What if I have never taken yoga or am not flexible?
You can and should do yoga even if you're not flexible! Yoga is not about how flexible you are when you start, but rather about improving flexibility, strength, and overall well-being over time. Start where you are and modify poses as needed to accommodate your level of flexibility and strength. Proper alignment will be more important than how deeply you can stretch into a pose. Pay attention to the alignment cues to safely engage muscles and avoid strain. Focus on your breath to calm your mind and deepen stretches. Most importantly, be patient. This is YOUR journey and YOUR practice.
I am an athlete, how can yoga improve my performance?
Yoga offers athletes numerous benefits that can significantly enhance performance and overall well-being. Integrating yoga into your routine can improve flexibility, balance, and strength, which are crucial for optimal athletic performance. Specific poses and routines tailored to your sport can target muscle groups essential for endurance and power, aiding both injury prevention and faster recovery. Regular practice enhances hip and shoulder mobility, key for maintaining range of motion and reducing the risk of strains or overuse injuries. Ideally, incorporating yoga practice 1-3 times per week complements your training regimen, fostering mental focus, relaxation, and mindfulness that can translate into improved athletic performance on and off the field.
Can I eat before our yoga session?
Yes, you can eat before our session, but it's important to consider what and when you eat to optimize your practice and avoid discomfort. I recommend eating a light meal or snack at least 1-2 hours before your yoga practice. This allows enough time for digestion so that you don't feel overly full or uncomfortable during poses and movements. Drink water before and after your practice to stay hydrated. Avoid drinking large amounts immediately before to prevent feeling bloated.
After your yoga session, especially if it's been intense, consider having a small snack to replenish energy and support muscle recovery. This could be a piece of fruit, a handful of nuts, or a protein-rich smoothie.
Ultimately, the goal is to nourish your body appropriately so that you have enough energy for your yoga practice without feeling weighed down or uncomfortable. Experiment with different foods and timing to find what works best for you.
Do you offer virtual classes?
Yes, I offer both in-person and virtual classes.
The biggest benefit of an in-person class is it allows for direct interaction, where I can provide hands-on adjustments and personalized guidance. However, I understand the convenience of taking a class virtually from the comfort of your home, making it easier for those with busy schedules.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please note that all service purchases are final, non-refundable, and cannot be transferred.
If you find the need to cancel a service, kindly provide 24-hour notice. I will happily honor a credit toward a future purchase.
If you are more than 10 minutes late for a scheduled virtual or in-person session, it will be considered a voluntary cancellation with no future credit applied.
Thank you for your understanding.