Yoga

Yoga is philosophy that comes from India, over 5,000 years ago. It is a sister practice of Ayurveda (the ancient self healing science from India). Written in ancient times, the Yoga Sutra is a collection of statements outlining the eight limbs of yoga (or eight steps) that act as guidelines on how to live a meaningful and purposeful life. Most Westerners who practice yoga engage in the third limb, asana, which is a program of physical postures designed to purify the body and provide the physical strength and stamina required for long periods of meditation.

Hatha is a traditional form of yoga, a path towards creating balance and uniting opposites: the masculine aspects (active, hot, sun) and female aspects (receptive, cool, moon), within all of us. Hatha yoga involves a set physical exercises (asanas) to align your skin, muscle and bones. These postures are also designed to open the many channels of the body–especially the main channel, the spine–so that energy can flow freely. This traditional system will help you bring a sense of balance and inner harmony while bringing attention to your breath, to still your mind and be present in each moment.

Lake Pleasant Chiropractic and Wellness Center provides basic and all level classes suitable for students of all ages and needs.

Common Questions about Beginning Yoga Practice

Can I do yoga if I am not flexible?
Yes! You are actually a perfect candidate for this practice. Many people think they need to be flexible before they begin classes. You don’t need to know how to play golf before taking golf lessons, right? The flexibility you will gain will help improve your joint range of motion, relieve muscle tension and promote posture correction.

How many times per week should I practice yoga?
Even with one hour per week, you will experience benefits. Two to three times per week is ideal and you will see more dramatic results. Our classes last one hour  to allow sufficient warm up and post stretch relaxation and meditation.

How is yoga different than other forms of fitness?
Unlike stretching or fitness, yoga is more than just physical postures. Yoga is unique because we connect the movement of the body and the fluctuations of the mind to the rhythm of our breath. By connecting the mind, body, and breath we can direct our attention inward. In our world of daily stress and worries, this practice will cultivate awareness of our experiences from moment to moment- making yoga a practice, rather than an experience or a task to be completed.

What do I need to begin?
Just bring your body, your mind and a little curiosity and willingness to learn. It will be helpful to wear sweatpants, leggings or shorts, and a t-shirt that is preferably not too baggy. Our center will provides blocks and straps and we encourage you to bring your own mat, however mats can be rented. We also recommend that you bring your own towel to class.

Please note: Our classes are in a small group setting where you will receive individualized attention to your unique needs from our qualified instructors. For area residents, your first class is half price! Please call our office 623-LP CHIRO for updated schedule and fees and to reserve your spot since space is limited.