FAQ

First Timers

Yoga Etiquette

Yoga Styles

More on Yoga

Do I need to be flexible to do yoga?

Don’t avoid yoga if you think you’re not flexible. Flexibility is a benefit from practicing yoga. If you have tight muscles, or ligaments, you should start in a Level 1 class and work towards a Level 2 class. The most important thing in developing flexibility is a regular practice, with balanced time off for your muscles to repair.

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Isn’t yoga just stretching?

No. Yoga is the practice of creating balance. A regular practice will develop both strength and flexibility. The classes can be fast paced with several poses, which will create heat inside the body, or the classes can be slowly with perfection of body alignment. Either style will increase stamina, strength, flexibility, mental focus, and relieve stress.

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Will yoga conflict with my religious beliefs?

No. Yoga is a philosophy of living. It is free from religious beliefs and deities.

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What I have an injury or chronic condition?

Before you begin any physical regimen get permission from you medical practitioner. Be sure to tell your teacher at the beginning of class so your teacher can give you poses that will help most and tell you which poses to avoid. Avoid doing any poses that cause pain.

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Will yoga help me lose weight?

Yoga will make you look and feel better no matter your size or weight. Yoga can help you slim down in by improving muscle tone, posture, and burning calories. Yoga is also about healthy living, which includes a healthy diet.

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How do I pick a type of yoga and get started?

The best way to start is to take an Intro series (twice weekly for three weeks), which will teach you the foundational breathing techniques and yoga poses. Silver Creek Yoga teachers and staff are available to answer any questions you may have.

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I see that there are many yoga styles. How do I know which is best for me?

To give you a better understanding of the type of yoga we offer, read our Yoga Styles page, which will describe how our classes differ. The Intro Series will teach you information on how they differ. The best thing to do is sample classes and teachers and stick with the teachers you like most.

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Will doing yoga make my body feel sore?

It is common to feel sore 2-48 hours after class, especially if you are just starting or practice infrequently. You can be sore, even if you are in good physical shape since yoga will stretch muscles and ligaments not commonly used. A hot bath or light stretching can relieve soreness. A consistent practice is most important.

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Can women do yoga during a menstrual cycle?

Yes. Cramps and headaches can be helped with a light practice. If you’re new to yoga stick with the level 1 classes. If you have an established yoga practice be careful of inversions or other poses that require balancing.

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Why do I feel nervous about coming to my first class?

Anything new and different can bring feelings of fear and anxiety. Yoga is about healing injuries, working with emotions, and becoming balanced in mind and body. Our teachers go out of their way to work with you and will never compare you to others, or make you feel self conscious.

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Do I need to bring a mat?

Yes. For hygienic reasons it is best to buy your own. Mats can harbor bacteria and fungus, so it's best to buy your own quality mat. We sell mats in our store.

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What do I wear for yoga?

Wear a comfortable top and bottom. For women, stretch pants and sports tanks or tops are most common. For men shorts and a t-shirt or tank top is most common. It important you wear clothes that will not restrict movement and will allow the teacher to see your joints. It is important that you wear an unscented deodorant. Note there is a difference between deodorant and antiperspirant. An antiperspirant works by blocking the sweat glands, the deodorant works by killing bacteria that make body odor. Avoid wearing body sprays, perfumes, or scented lotions.

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What do you need to practice yoga?

Nothing more than a mat, so you don’t slip, and a commitment of time to practice regularly. Our studios are stocked with the common yoga props, such as blocks, blankets, sand bags, and straps. It’s also important to bring a large towel, so you can put on top of your mat, or so you can wipe your face and arms.

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What should I do about a slippery yoga mat?

Most mats have an oil or film that is part of the manufacturing process. The best way to clean a mat is using a damp cloth and diluted soap. If your hands sweat keep a towel at the front of your mat to wipe your hands or keep under hands. It is best to not use oils or lotions before class. We carry several non-skid mats made from natural rubber that offer great grip.

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What should I do to prepare for class?

Avoid eating at least two hours before. Drink lots of water. Use the restroom before class starts.

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What are the basics once I get there?

Remove your shoes, there are cubbies in the lobby. Arrive 10 minutes before class starts, if it’s your first time, arrive 15 minutes prior so you can sign in. Turn off your cell phone, or better yet leave it at home or in the car.

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What are the basics once class has begun?

Respect your teacher and fellow students by not talking during class. Don’t come late or leave early, it’s disruptive to others. If you feel bloated, or have gas, go to the restroom before class. If you feel bloated during class quietly step out to use the restroom, and quietly return.

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What is yoga, historically speaking?

Yoga is a system of philosophy that is over 5,000 years old. Most students start with asana (physical poses), pranayama (breathing exercises), and dhyana (meditation). For more information on the Eight Limbs, read the wiki article on Raja Yoga [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raja_Yoga]

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Do I need to be a vegetarian to really do yoga?

Yes. No. Maybe. The Niyama (code of conduct) in yoga requires Ahimsa (non-violence). This includes not harming any creatures of the world, or each other. Some yoga students continue to choose to eat meat and are conscious of the sacrifice the animal made. Ask yourself why you would want to become a vegetarian. Are you doing it for a healthy reason?

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Is there proof that yoga is good for you?

Yes. There are scientific studies that have connected yoga with numerous psychological and physical benefits. The most common are a reduction in stress, recovery hip and back injuries, and reduction in allergy and asthma conditions.

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What is Om (sometimes Aum)?

Om is a sacred sound used in yoga, usually during chanting. Om can have many meanings, but the simple meaning is the frequency, or vibration of all things living.

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How many styles of yoga are there?

Many. Most styles can be traced back to two teachers, BKS Iyengar, and Pattahbi Jois.

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