YOGA

What is Hatha Yoga?

Hatha Yoga refers to a set of physical exercises known as asanas or postures, designed to align your skin, muscles, and bones. The postures are also designed to open the many channels of the body, especially the main channel: the spine, so that energy can flow freely.   There are many different styles of Hatha Yoga.  You may have heard of Iyengar Yoga, Anusara Yoga,  Bikram or “Hot Yoga”, Astanga Vinyasa Yoga, Power Yoga.  All of these different styles are actually varying forms of Hatha Yoga.

Hatha is also translated as ha meaning “sun” and tha meaning “moon.” This refers to the balance of masculine (active & fiery: sun) and feminine (receptive & calm: moon) aspects within all of us. Hatha Yoga is a path toward creating balance and uniting contrary compliments.  In our physical bodies we develop a balance of strength and flexibility. We also learn to balance our effort and surrender in each pose.

Hatha yoga is a powerful tool for self-transformation. The practice of Yoga enhances contentment and joy, and facilitates living with greater awareness, wisdom and grace.

What should I wear to yoga class?

Please wear comfortable clothing that you can move around in.

What should I bring with me?

It is strongly recommended that you have your own mat. (We do have mats for you to borrow, if you do not yet have your own.) It is also recommended that you bring a towel and some water.

Why should I have my own mat?

Yoga mats are relatively inexpensive and there are many advantages, apart from the obvious hygienic benefits, to having your own mat. Owning your own mat encourages you to practice Yoga more often: at home, on holidays or whenever you feel inspired.  Having a mat of your own gives you a personal space to play, which will encourage you to develop and deepen your practice. And you can bring that ‘personal space’ along with you to class.  Your mat has your sweat and hard work emblazoned into it, and can become like an old friend as your practice progresses.

Do I do yoga in my bare feet?

Yes.

Do I have to be flexible to do yoga?

Not at all. Yoga creates flexibility. It is not required that you already be limber in order to participate.

If I have never done yoga before, what is the best place for me to start?

If you are new to Yoga, our Intro to Yoga Course is the perfect place to begin.  Our 7am and lunchtime express classes are also geared more toward beginners. It is recommended that you let your instructor know that you have never done yoga before class begins. You may also set up to meet with an instructor privately, or get a group of friends together who are also interested in getting started and we will find an instructor who can work with you.

Can I practice yoga with an injury or medical condition? If you have any sort of condition or injury, it is important to check with your physician before coming to class. Please be sure to let your instructor know if you have any sort of injury or illness. This will allow your teacher to help you to modify your practice so that it is healing and appropriate for your body.

Can I practice yoga when I am pregnant? It is important to speak with your doctor before deciding to do yoga if you are expecting. If you choose to practice while pregnant, it is important to let your instructor know before you begin class.

POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Refunds:

Refunds are given up to 1 week prior to the beginning of a workshop or event, less a 20% admin fee. Refunds will not be given less than 1 week prior to the beginning of a workshop or event, unless your space can be filled from a waiting list.

Unused portions of class cards can not be refunded (except for medical reasons), however we gladly allow transfers to other students.

What do I do if I am running late to class?

If you are running late, you’re still welcome to come and join in.  Just have a look through the window before you enter and if the class is still in meditation, it’s best to wait until they start moving, or slip quietly inside and sit by the door.

What do I do if I need to leave class early?

It is important to take some time for savasana (deep relaxation) at the end of class. If you need to leave early, please be sure to take a few minutes for this final pose.

Can I bring my stuff into the studio with me?

Yes. Shoes should be left on the racks at the bottom of the stairs that lead up to the studio, but there are cubbies in the studio where you can put your personal belongings. Please make sure your mobile phone is turned off.

Can I leave my mat at the studio?

Yes, we’re happy to provide a place to store your mat, if you are attending class regularly.   Please make sure to have your name on your mat, and a way for you to identify it, such as a mat bag or a strap around it.  Shri Yoga can not take responsibility for mats that are lost or misplaced.

Do I need to register for classes at Shri?

No, you do not need to pre-register for any of the classes listed on the schedule. However, you do need to pre-register for courses such as the Intro to Yoga Course, and workshops.

Does Shri have mats that I can borrow?

It’s recommended that you have your own mat and we provide a place for you to store your own mat at the studio. But we do have a few mats available to borrow if you forget yours or do not have one yet. If you are not sure where they are, please ask your instructor so you don’t inadvertently grab someone’s personal mat.

TEACHERS AND STYLES

The types of classes aren’t listed on the schedule. How do I know which class is the right one for me?

All of the teachers at Shri are exceptional and highly qualified instructors from several different styles of Yoga.  We recommend that you come to the class that feels the most appropriate for your level, and that you try different instructors. You may check the individual instructors’ bios for a better explanation of the style that he or she teaches.