Here are our answers to the most frequently asked questions that may help you prepare for your first yoga session.
I have never done yoga before, what should I expect?
There is nothing that you need to do before you try your first class.
We suggest that you try a few beginners’ classes first, where our accredited teachers will be there to help you understand the basic moves and breathing techniques. We do not meditate or chant in our classes, preferring to use the power of the breath and movements of the body to bring relaxation and focus into your body.
I have tried yoga before, but I’m new to Japanese Yoga?
You will find our yoga dynamic and easy to follow where the postures are broken down into movements designed to bring balance to the body making your practice more effective. Deepen your understanding and knowledge of the postures and asanas and feel the energy of the meridians and how the it flows and works within the body. We love our yoga and can’t wait for you to try it!
What should I wear?
Starting anything new can sometimes be a little confronting but all you will need to start yoga is some comfortable, stretchy clothes and you are ready to go. You will not need another pair of expensive shoes you practice yoga barefoot.
Do I need to bring anything?
We supply clean mats and soft comfy futons all in air conditioned comfort. You are more than welcome to bring a towel or sarong to lay on, or a yoga towel/mat if you prefer. There are places to get changed and box shelves in the yoga room where you can leave all your stuff.
Can I eat before class?
As with any sport eating just before a workout can make you feel uncomfortable. Here are some simple guidelines to make sure you get the most out of your class.
With even the lightest meal, such as fruit or juice, allow at least one hour before class.
For larger meals with vegetables and grains, allow two hours before class.
For heavy meals with meat, allow three to four hours before class.
How much water should I drink?
Japanese Yoga is not done in a heated room, so you can stick to your normal healthy level of water consumption.
Remember that cramping is a sign that your pH level is off kilter. You may be dehydrated or lack enough good salt in your diet. – as with everything we do, balance is the key.
How often should I come?
To get the most out of yoga, we suggest that you make yoga part of your weekly routine. With just one or two classes a week you will start to notice a change, start to move a little easier and sleep a little better.
Yoga is not like any other exercise – what changes you make will be with you for life. You will build on your practice each time you come, building core and body strength with flexibility and focus.
All we ask of you is that you be patient with yourself and remember that we will be helping you every step of the way.
Should I come in the morning or at night?
The yoga that is practiced in the morning will differ from the yoga you do at lunchtime, or at night. Just as we change our yoga to suit the seasons, we also change it to suit the time of day.
Morning yoga is more aerobic with a faster pace. You will find that there is less emphasis on stretching and more on moving to build strength, vitality and stamina. Morning yoga is great for sports training, increasing metabolism rates and assisting in weight loss. Yoga is a great start to any day and will help you power through the whole day – even that mid-afternoon slump.
As we progress through the day the movements become more focussed. Night yoga is done at a much slower pace where relaxation and flexibility can be your main focus. It is all about de-stressing and helping the body unwind for a good night’s sleep.
I’m not very flexible, how can I do yoga?
If your not very flexible, then you definitely should try yoga. Inflexibility can lead to long term side effects, such as neck and should pain, lower back, hip and knee problems.
Yoga will help you get those stiff joints moving again to relieve that over-tight, overworked feeling in your muscles. Yoga is surprisingly simple, easy to learn and well worth the effort.
What if I am pregnant?
Japanese yoga can be practiced all the way through your pregnancy and will teach you breathing and focussing techniques invaluable during all stages of pregnancy, birth and post natal recovery. We also offer specialised natal programs, workshops and private remedial yoga sessions.
