What is Yoga?
According to the American Yoga Association, the word Yoga means “to join or yoke together,” and it brings the body and mind together into one harmonious experience.
Yoga has been practiced worldwide for more than 5000 years. In the United States, Yoga gained momentum in the latter half of the 20th Century.
The whole system of Yoga is built on three main structures: exercise, breathing, and meditation. The exercises of Yoga are designed to put pressure on the glandular systems of the body, thereby increasing its efficiency and total health.
Types of Yoga offered at Performance Health
Hatha Yoga: The classical practice of static yoga postures based on holding the poses for a series of breaths, relaxed stretching and focusing on alignment to achieve purification.
Vinyasa Yoga: Dynamic flowing yoga practice based on synchronizing movement with breath. Attention is placed on the breath and the journey between the postures. The result is a smooth, flowing class that builds heat, endurance, flexibility, strength and concentration.
Power Yoga: A strength building practice focusing on developing the core, increasing strength, flexibility and focus with this challenging sequence of poses.
Tips for your first class: NEW STUDENTS
* Arrive Early. Be in the studio early enough to be on your mat before class begins. Classes begin promptly. Late arrivals are discouraged.
* Be Prepared. Please arrive at the studio 15 minutes early to fill out any paperwork. We recommend bringing a towel and water. Yoga is best experienced on an empty stomach. Hydrate well by drinking water throughout the day. For yoga classes, wear comfortable, non-baggy clothing.
Studio/Yogi Etiquette
- Class size is limited ensuring individual attention for all students.
- Be early to class. Late entry to a class is extremely disruptive to the energy we are trying to create and it sets the wrong impression for others. Be mindful…be on time.
- Turn off your cell phones before entering the studio.
- Sign in at front desk before class.
- Bring your own mat; it’s more hygienic.
- If you have a health issue (illness, injury or medical condition), please arrive early enough to speak with your teacher about it before class. Not every pose is appropriate for everyone.
- Remove shoes before entering the yoga rooms. We practice in our bare feet.
- Be kind and loving to yourself by accepting where you are. The body will respond beautifully when you show it kindness, acceptance and love. Rest sometimes. Do what you can, with what you have, with where you are.
- Yoga is for everyone. No experience in flexibility is required to practice yoga.
- Stay for the entire class. If you need to leave early, tell the teacher beforehand and exit before final relaxation.
- HAVE FUN, explore, learn and enjoy your time here!
