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FAQs
About my Classes
I get nervous about expressing myself in group settings. Will I be required to recite mantras in your classes?
I don’t often include recitation or chanting in my classes. On the rare occasions where I might suggest participants try using a mantra to quiet their mind and focus their practice, you are always welcome to do so silently rather than out loud. If you have other questions about the specifics of my classes, please contact me.
I’ve been thinking about doing yoga for a long time, but I don’t have the right clothes or equipment and can’t afford to invest in them as well as pay for a class. Is there anything else I can do instead?
I would encourage you to come along to one of my classes (either pay as you go or one free session at the Minch Fitness Hub) in whatever you feel comfortable moving in. A beneficial yoga practice doesn’t require specific clothing – in fact, millions of people around the world who don’t have access to ‘technical’ clothing or garments marketed as specifically for yoga still enjoy daily practice. What is important is comfort. If you can move comfortably and safely in it, then you can wear it to yoga!
Yoga really encourages you to use your body to find stability, mobility and balance so very little equipment is required. A yoga mat, which aids with comfort and stability is usually the only essential. I provide mats at all my classes, so you do not need to provide your own. Other aids such as ‘blocks’ and ‘belts’ are also provided. Find out more about my classes here.
I’m not yet sure if yoga is for me, do I have to commit to a whole term of classes?
No. I offer pay as you go options for my weekly classes so you can come, give it a go and see what you think before making a financial commitment. The Sportily Minch Fitness Hub also offers the option to try one gym session (this includes yoga) for free before committing to a monthly membership. You can find out more about my classes and fees here.
About Yoga
I have some aches and pains and old sports injuries, can I take part in yoga?
Yes. However, you should always seek advice from your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine or returning to fitness after injury. Most yoga poses can be adapted to accommodate sore joints, injuries and even post-surgery recovery and I enjoy working with participants to find a practice that works for them. Many participants who begin practicing yoga with a range of aches, pains and muscle tightness find that these problems are reduced by the gentle movement and relaxation of yoga.
Similarly, if you are trying to regain confidence with moving and exercising after injury, the gentle, stabilizing moves within Hatha yoga can be a good place to start feeling like yourself again. If you have questions about starting or continuing with yoga following injury or surgery, please contact me.
Is there a particular body type that is more suited to yoga?
No. Yoga is for every body. Yoga is an ancient discipline that has been practiced by millions of people through time and around the world. The benefits of regularly practicing yoga can be enjoyed by people of all shapes, sizes, sexes, ages and abilities. Although many people assume that modern pictures of yoga practice represent the ‘ideal’ shape for practicing yoga there is no perfect yoga body. If you have specific questions about how yoga can work with your physical abilities please contact me.
The work I do leaves me feeling tired and my muscles tight. I’m not sure I have the energy or flexibility to get the most out of yoga.
You don’t need to be flexible to get what your body and mind needs from yoga. While I will guide you to find the right positioning of your body for a particular pose, there is no pressure or need for you to push yourself into any uncomfortable or overstretched positions, you simply find what works for you. I will always suggest adaptations to poses to help you feel comfortable and confident.
It’s perfectly ok to come to a class with low energy. The beginning of every class starts with a few moments of stillness that allows you to get settled in the space and check in with how you are feeling. If you are feeling sluggish, the gentle movement of yoga will be relaxing rather than taxing for your body and may actually boost your energy levels.