Benefits of a regular yoga practice can include…

• Improved muscle tone, strength and stamina
• Greater flexibility and range of motion
• Improved circulation
• Reduction of tension, stress and blood pressure
• A decrease in stored fat
• Improved digestion
• Stimulation of the immune system
• Improved balance & posture
• Improved mind/body awareness
• Improved  mental concentration
• A sense of well being and calm

For beginners…

  • Bulky clothing will inhibit movement
  • Yoga is done barefooted
  • Don’t eat a large meal for 2 hours before class
  • If you don’t have a mat, we can provide one
  • Ask questions
  • Before class, let your teacher know of any physical limitations
  • Enjoy  yourself!

Yoga links…

Anusara Yoga - This is the style of yoga I have been studying since my teacher training in 2003. I attended John’s teacher training in Atlanta GA, 2005. He was taping for the Teacher Training DVD which is now on sale in the on-line store. There is a good size online store for Music, DVD’s, CD’s and other goodies.

Asheville Yoga Center - (Where I received my 230-hour Teacher Certification.) Stephanie has 2 flow yoga videos.

These are the websites of 2 of my favorite teachers:
Desiree Rumbaugh - She has 2 DVD’s.
Mitchel Bleier - He has a new CD but it is for experienced yogis, but if you are experienced its great!

Yoga Journal magazine - Lots of archived articles and great source of yoga information.

Yoga Journal Article for beginners - Here’s a great article with some good beginner sequences and sequences to target specific conditions or parts of the body. You can check them out on-line, print off what you want, and then get on your mat and try it! The posture names are all written in Sanskrit but if you click on the name there is a picture and/or instructions.

Yoga Alliance - The guidelines and ethics of yoga teachers registered.

Yoga is fun and feels great!
Frequently Asked Question’s


What is yoga?
Yoga means “union” or “yoke”. The practice of yoga is to bring one’s body, mind and heart into a harmonious whole. Hatha yoga is the physical practice of asanas, or postures, combined with mindful breathing which supports the mind/body/heart connection.

Is yoga a religion?
No! The history of yoga is wrapped around Hindu stories and lore since that is where it originated. Hatha yoga is not, in itself, religious in any way.  Some of the postures are named after a Hindu God or sage just as we sometimes use Greek mythology to define or label. Hatha yoga honors the belief systems of all by remaining true to certain principles common in all religions. Patanjali set forth certain codes of conduct and morals for yogis to adhere to thousands of years ago. These writings are called the Yoga Sutras (Sutra meaning” thread”, that which connects one thing to another). Some of these include: non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, and moderation. 

Can I do yoga if I’m not flexible?
Yes!  A  wonderful aspect of yoga is that anyone can do it!  In yoga, we start where we are and go from there. You are in charge of taking care of your body and knowing your limits. With regular practice you will notice your body loosening and you will feel more open with greater range of motion!

Can yoga help me lose weight?
Yes! Yoga aids in weight loss, not only as a result of postures and muscle toning (muscle burns more calories and replaces fat), but also from increased respect for our bodies and heightened awareness of our eating habits. We begin wanting to treat our bodies better! Also, many of us eat in response to stress or as a way of dealing with emotions. Yoga offers us another way to handle our stress and emotions.

What does NAMASTE mean?
Namaste (pronounced Nam-a-stay), loosely translated, means “the light in me honors the light in you”. Often, at the end of a yoga class, teachers and students show their respect for one another using this salutation.

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