You may be wondering…
“What is Yoga?”
The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj meaning to bind, join, attach and yoke, to direct and concentrate one’s attention on, and to use and apply. It also means union or communion. It is the integration of our humanness with that which is divine.
“That doesn’t sound like anything close to what I’ve imagined people are doing in yoga classes. I’m confused.”
That’s because here in the west people have shortened the name of the practice called “Hatha Yoga” to simply, “Yoga”. In actuality, “Yoga” includes much more than Hatha Yoga. If you want to begin to understand what Yoga is, we recommend attending a FREE Introduction to Yoga lecture that Shyama offers on a fairly regular basis. Or gather a group of friends and colleagues and invite Shyama over to offer this presentation.
“What is it then that people are doing that they are calling Yoga?”
Hatha Yoga, which is a form of yoga (like an apple is a type of food). Hatha Yoga is the study of your body, its movement, the breath, the mind, and the soul.
Below are a few hints and suggestions which will benefit your experience.
Attitude:
1) Everybody, regardless of age, weight, flexibility or fitness can practice hatha yoga. It is meant to be molded for each person and their individual needs. Therefore, when you practice in a class environment, it is best to keep most of your attention on yourself.
2) Be mindful of your capacity and learn to work within it.
3) In the postures, concentrate your mind on the muscles being stretched, and learn to distinguish between stretching and straining.
4) Do your best to enjoy and have fun! Each pose in hatha yoga is called an asana which translates to be comfortable in your body and experience joy.
Food:
1) Hatha Yoga is best done on an empty stomach. Try to allow at least two hours to pass after a heavy meal; one hour after a light meal. If you need some juice or spoonfuls of something light like yogurt just before class that will be fine.
2) If possible, wait one half hour after practicing Hatha Yoga before eating, giving your digestive fire a chance to kick in fully; drinking is fine right away.
Clothing:
Hatha Yoga is best practiced in clothes that allow for a full range of movement. It helps your instructor if we can see your muscles and bones so if possible, wear leggings or shorts and stay away from clothing that is loose.
Breathing:
In all asanas, breathing is done deeply and evenly through the nostrils (without holding the breath), unless specified otherwise.
Physical Condition:
If you have a physical condition, such as pregnancy, high blood pressure, back problems, heart disorder, pain, sickness, etc., please contact your instructor ahead of time to let them know so you can be taken care of safely and appropriately. Starting with one or a few private classes is often recommended.
Place: Hatha Yoga is preferably done in a clean, airy and quiet environment. It is best to have a flat, level and firm surface to practice on.
Relaxation:
A Hatha Yoga class will almost always end with a formal relaxation called Savasana. This will rejuvenate the body, clear the mind and help you integrate what you’ve learned.