Frequently Asked Questions about Yoga
Question: Do I have to tie myself in a knot to do Yoga?
Answer: Certainly no. The goal of Yoga , is not to do the head stand or the lotus pose but to “Quiet the distractions of the mind.” Something that most Westerners could certainly benefit from. The Yoga poses that you use should be selected to fit your individual needs based on your physical and mental condition , as well as your age.
Question: What are some of the benefits of Yoga?
Answer: Perhaps the first and most profound benefit that most Westerners notice is stress reduction. The next benefit that all physicians support is circulation. Although Hatha Yoga does improve your flexibility, most people are not aware that Yoga poses are also good for strength. The whole idea is a balance of strength and flexibility. Once the system comes closer to balance, most practitioners notice an increase in vitality and an overall sense of well-being. The benefits of Yoga do not occur overnight but the results are lasting.
Question: Is Yoga safe?
Answer: In most cases yes. However, if you select the wrong level of difficulty in a large group class and have some physical limitations, you could have some problems. It is very important to be sure you are in the right class and inform the instructor of any potential problems. Look for Beginners classes and private instruction, and chair yoga classes and private instruction.
Question: How do I find the right place to take a Yoga class?
Answer: Since the Golden Triangle has so many places that teach Yoga, it is advisable to try and compare several places. Most important is, which place has the overall environment that makes you feel most comfortable. There are currently no city, state or federal guidelines for Yoga. There is a very wide spectrum of environments in Yoga classes. It is almost amusing. The biggest differences are between the physical difficulty levels of the classes. You need to decide if you want your Yoga class to be a work-out, and work-in, or some where in-between. A good Yoga class should incorporate the concept of body, breath and mind. In no case should you allow someone to push or intimidate you into doing something that does not feel intuitively right. I have a list of
other yoga classes in the area. You may contact me for the list at yogawithgaileee@gmail.com.
Question: How often should I go to a Yoga class?
Answer: Ideally, at least two or three times per week. Some people keep their life on track and make some progress by coming once a week, and many people get really motivated by Yoga and come everyday. It depends on the individual and his or her needs.
Question: Is Yoga Co-ed?
Answer: Yes, on the average there are more women in Yoga classes than men; however, some of the more physical Yoga classes have an almost equal ratio.
Question: How much does Yoga cost?
Answer: The least expensive Yoga classes are available at adult schools and community centers. In the Golden Triangle area, as low as $5 - $10, $14, $25 per class in a course. Or, your health club may include Yoga in the package. However, most Yoga centers average around $10 - $20 a class in a series. A one-time drop-in fee varies widely. Many schools offer the first class free, some charge up to $25. You can do research by using the internet and the phone.
Question: What do you wear to a Yoga class?
Answer: There is a wide variety of clothing worn in Yoga classes, depending on how physical the class is and the temperature of the room. Women often wear leotards, shorts or sweats. Men often wear shorts or sweats. However, Yoga clothing, like that of other fitness classes, is also a personal expression.
Question: How long should a Yoga class be?
Answer: The length of a Yoga class varies from 45 minutes to one and a half hours. Health clubs and corporate classes are usually close to one hour.
Question: What is Yoga?
Answer: Yoga is a profound system of holistic health which originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It was first put into written form as the Yoga Sutra. The author was Patanjali (pronounced pa-tan-ja-li). Since the original work was in Sanskrit, there are many translations and interpretations. Yoga is defined in the sutras as having eight limbs or branches. It is the third limb “Asana” (pronounced a-sana-a), which refers to postures or Yoga poses that most people perceive as Yoga. The study of asana and physical culture is called Hatha Yoga, (pronounced Ha-ta with a soft T). There are possibly more people doing Hatha Yoga now in the state of California than in the entire country of India.
Question: What is Yoga Therapy?
Answer: A simple answer is that Yoga Therapy is usually offered one on one for people that are not able to participate in a regular group class. Some of the many ailments successfully treated with Yoga Therapy are: lower and upper back problems, hypertension and heart disease, asthma and diabetes. I teach yoga for those with Osteopenia / Osteoporosis, Low Back Challenges, Yoga for Better Sleep.
Contact Gail Pickens-Barger at (409) 727-3177, leave a voice message if I am unable to take your call. Additionally you may email me at: YogaWithGaileee@gmail.com
Fun post! Thanks for the facebook note!
I’d love to win this, since I really need to get back into doing yoga after having my son 7 months ago. This would help start a home practice again. Thanks for contacting me via my blog!
I love yoga! I think the instructor makes a big difference in whether you will enjoy your yoga experience or not… so IF you have tried and not liked, do not give up until you have experienced Gaileee’s class!Class begins with a relaxation meditation as she reads from inspirational Christian literature, then goes into poses that she shows you how to keep “between easy and ouch!” Gail interjects her wisdom, wit, and humor as she guides you into new yoga positions designed to stretch you, relax you, and relieve stress. Every class ends with Gail giving a gift of herself: whether a foot rub, aromatherapy, or leg extension- it’s always a treat to look forward to!
I think the Neti pot would be great to have for this upcoming winter!
I’ve heard so many good things about Neti pots; I’d love to try one!urchiken at gmail dot com
I would love to try Yoga, so I would choose the cards. Sorry, you’ve lost me on the Neti Pot. I know that they are supposed to be great, but the whole thing creeps me out a bit! Thank you!art and nature *at* juno [dot] com
I would love this–especially the sinucleanse–I’ve always wanted to try that.Thanks for the entry.lydia.bower @ gmail.com
Well – I’m from Canada – but I’ll leave a comment just to show my support. I use yoga cards in kids yoga oftne. Although I don’t have this deck, the visuals are always attractive to kids.I’d love to read a post about the sinus pot and if it’s good.
I have a hard time breathing at times because of my sinus problems. So I’d love to win the SinuCleanse® Neti Pot. 🙂lilacbutterfly [at] earthlink.net
Love yoga and the Neti pot is supposed to be great!Your site is super.
My mom is really into yoga, I’d love to tuck the cards into her present this Christmas!screamingicecube at bellsouth dot net
Im giving away 1 lb of Gourmet Coffee or Tea from my new online coffee shop: Get The Bean. We will be doing giveaways weekly so be sure to stop by often.http://www.getthebean.blogspot.com
I would love to try the Neti Pot, I am really struggling with allergies this Fall and have heard using this approach is much better than medicine!Thank you for the very generous giveaway!foxsquirrelrabbit(at)gmail(dot)com
Gailee, how fun! If I do win, I’ll spread the karma as well. I’m debating doing this as well. You are awesome!
Thank you for the great giveaway!kerin0874 (at) yahoo (dot) com
I’d love to try a neti pot. I’ve heard a lot of great things about them.
heard great things about the netti on oprah nice mrs.mommyyatgmaildot.com
I have sinus problems and allergies. I would love to try the The SinuCleanse® Neti Pot.
I’d love to have the Neti pot.bebemiqui82(at)yahoo(dot)com
I’ve been wanting to try a Neti Pot for some time now and I’m sure my sinuses would thank me if I would just do it! Thanks for the chance to win your great giveaway!proudyaya04 {at} yahoo {dot} com
My husband wants a Neti Pot. He gets bad allergies twice a year and could really use one.the_other_alice_(at)yahoo.com
I really want to try the Neti pot- thanks for the chance to win!
We have 2 people here with allergies, so would be noce
I love yoga! 🙂 Thanks for the great giveaway 🙂anastasia[at]mediamafia.org
Ooh, I’d love the neti pot for my allergies and any colds this winter!
I’d love to win either of these prizes. I’ve been wanting to try yoga, and I think my husband could benefit from a neti pot
Hmmm, yoga or a neti pot. Actually, they are both great items IMO.
I know someone who loves yogaKawaiiNeko2008 (at) aol (dot) com
the yoga cards look very interesting…a great way to learn yoga out of your home…thank you for the giveaway..cvdmvega@yahoo.com
I’ve heard good things about Neti pots, thanks!!!
I’ve been wanting to try the Neti pot for my allergies! The yoga cards are very cool as well, I’ve done some but want to get into it more.
These both look great. I have heard about the neti pot and would like to check it out. Thanks for the giveaway!