What should I bring to class?

I recommend having your own personal yoga mat, blocks, and a strap as the basic set of materials for practicing yoga. If a class is held in a studio the blocks, blankets, and straps are usually provided. If you are growing serious about your practice and are ready to make more of an investment there are so many resources available. Read the article from my journal on how to set up your home studio.

How should I dress?

While leggings have become synonymous with yoga practice it is perfectly acceptable to wear something else. Keep in mind that loose or flowy garments can get in the way and could lead to an injury. So if you plan to pass on the leggings a pair of lightweight joggers or shorts should be fine.

Should I eat before or after?

Give it an hour or more depending on how quickly you digest your food. It takes me a bit longer to digest so I like a good hour and a half after completing my meal. There will be twisting, bends, and inversions in nearly all yoga classes and it is very uncomfortable to practice on a full stomach.

I am not flexible, should I still try yoga?

This is why you should practice yoga. Yoga is known for flexibility, but flexibility requires a lot of strength and endurance, so you will be activating all areas that contribute to having a healthy body.

will Yoga contradict my religion?

This is a question you will have to decide for yourself. Yoga is a physical and spiritual practice, so some may feel uncomfortable with certain elements of the practice. Spiritually yoga is rooted in spiritual practices developed centuries ago in India. The message is of universal love, peace, and unity which are familiar themes to most religions. I recommend opting out of anything that makes you feel uncomfortable in the practice. For ways to modify read this article from my journal.

Am I too old to start practicing yoga?

No. Yoga is perfect for aging bodies and you may find that after regular practice you will have improved mobility and can even begin to introduce other types of movement into your day. Aging is inevitable, but there is so much that we can and should do to maintain and improve our health and lifestyle as we age.

I have injuries, is it safe?

It is very important that you communicate any health issues that may potentially impact your comfort and ability to practice, but accessibility in yoga is the standard in my classes. To experiment with accessible poses click here.