Frequently Asked Questions
I am not flexible at all. Can I do yoga?
Being flexible is not a prerequisite for beginning your yoga practice. It is one of yoga’s many benefits. The more you practice, the more your body opens up, becoming stronger, more flexible with improved balance.
What should I wear to a yoga class?
Wear stretchy comfortable clothes that allows freedom of movement, without constricting. Clothing which is too baggy tends to get in the way, but it doesn’t need to be skin-tight either.
I have bad wrists and knees. Is there a yoga class for me?
Yes! Chair Yoga is a perfect class for people with bad knees or wrist issues. You can do a full yoga practice in a Chair Yoga class without having to get on a mat on the floor.
Restorative and Yin Yoga are also good options. Postures in Restorative and Yin Yoga are seated or supine, supported by blocks, blankets, and bolsters to ensure your safety and comfort.
I am 70 years old. I am too old to do yoga?
Absolutely not! Everyone can benefit from yoga. Depending on your fitness level, there are different classes from which to choose. If you have healthy wrists and don’t mind being on the floor, start with Gentle Yoga. Yin Yoga is also a good place to start. As familiarity with the practice increases, you can move on to Mixed Level Vinyasa classes.
If you have wrist issues, or bad knees, or problems with other joints, our Chair Yoga, Yin Yoga, and Restorative Yoga classes are perfect for you.
Do you heat the room?
In the winter, the room is heated to a comfortable temperature. We do not offer “hot yoga” classes. At Yajamahe Yoga, you create your own heat by the use of ujjayi breathing, engaged bandhas, and mindful movement. You will not need artificial means to loosen up. If you like to sweat, our advanced classes will undoubtedly fit the bill. Most people break a sweat in the Ashtanga Primary Series, Ashtanga/Vinyasa Blend, Classical Vinyasa Yoga, and the Sunday Masterclass, and leave feeling like they’ve had a good workout.
Do you have a mat I can use?
Yes, we do have mats available for you to use. However, we do recommend you bring your own mat to class. We do not charge a mat rental fee. We only ask that you clean the mat after you use it.
Do you have classes for beginners?
Yes. The best place to start is with our Gentle Yoga classes. Then, if the Gentle Yoga classes feel too easy and you would like to challenge yourself a bit more, move up to the Mixed Level Vinyasa classes.
I have been practicing yoga for many years. Do you have classes for advanced students?
Our two-hour Classical Yoga Masterclass on Sundays at 11:00 AM is expressly for advanced students. The Classical Yoga classes on Tuesdays & Thursdays at 6:30 PM offer options for experienced students to move into advanced variations, while offering modifications that are achievable for most students. These classes are challenging, strengthening, and include opportunities to practice advanced postures not usually offered in most vinyasa classes. Our weekday 9:30 AM Vinyasa classes offer advanced options for experienced students as well. Ashtanga/Vinyasa Blend, and the Full Primary Series are also classes that will challenge experienced students.
Is yoga a religion?
Persons of all faiths can practice yoga. While it is not a religion, spirituality is inherent in yoga. Yoga does not conflict with any belief system. Truth is Truth. There is only one God. Yoga, practiced with dedication and focus, can help you deepen your own faith and help you along you own spiritual path. If you are not a believer, or consider yourself agnostic, you can still benefit from yoga’s healing practices. Yoga is an all inclusive practice.
Is there anything I need to do to prepare for a yoga class?
It is best to practice yoga on an empty stomach, so wait at least two hours after a meal to practice, or one hour after a light snack.
Shower before coming to class. Soucha (cleanliness or purity in body, surroundings, diet) is one of the tenets of yoga. Do it out of respect for yourself, your teacher, and your fellow students.
Refrain from wearing perfume or scented lotion or oil.
Do not chew gum in class.
For hygienic reasons, it is best to bring your own mat, but if you forget it, or don’t have one, we do have mats available for your use or to purchase.
Hydrate before and after class. It is not recommended to drink water during class.
Familiarize yourself with Yoga Etiquette.