What is yoga?

The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit word yuj which means to yoke or to bind. Yoga is often translated as union. In hatha yoga we seek the union of the sun(ha) and the moon (tha) which symbolizes the balancing of feminine and masculine, left and right sides of the brain, and the balancing of the nadis (energy meridians). Once we are in balance, we are able to move about in harmony, and meet challenges in our lives with grace and awareness. We can remain centered in the midst of turmoil, which allows us to make choices that serve our highest good.

In classical yoga there are Eight Limbs of practice. In the West the type of yoga practiced most is asana which are the physical yoga postures.  However, the rich tradition of yoga offers us the other limbs (niyamas, yamas, pranayama, pratyahara, dhyana, dhyana) that all lead to the eighth limb and ultimate aim: samadhi.  Incorporating these other limbs into your asana practice will deepen your experience of yoga and transform your practice and your life. To learn more about the Eight Limbs of yoga or the Royal Path, CLICK HERE.


Do I have to be flexible?

No. Yoga practice allows you start where you are. Since it is not a goal oriented practice you simply do what you can, and allow yourself to rest when you need to. The key is to find a practice that is suitable for your present level of fitness. If you are completely new to yoga. It would be wise to start with a beginner or basic practice. We highly recommend trying a few beginner classes at your local yoga studio so you can get a working knowledge of the standard poses and your body's anatomy.


I have heard that there is a special type of yogic breathing. Is this easy to learn?

Awareness of the breath is just one of the many elements that separates yoga practice from ordinary exercise. In yoga we practice a breath called ujjayi (victory) breath. This breath oxegenates the blood, tonifying the organs. Because you can hear yourself breathe, it keeps you present to what is going on in your body and mind. Other benefits include strengthening the digestive and nervous systems, increasing energy, and releasing stress. Since the quality of the breath reflects the quality of the mind, we try to keep the breath deep and smooth, breathing in and out through the nose. To learn and practice the Ujjayi breath, CLICK HERE.