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More on Yoga

Frequently Asked Questions + Other Writings on Yoga

Follow Along with the Opening Mantra

I open myself to the transformative energy of this practice through body, breath, and mind.

I humbly express gratitude for the guidance given on this path of Self discovery offered through the teachings of yoga.

jīvamaņi bhrājat-phaņa

jeeva-mani bhra-jat-pana

sahasra-vidhṛta viśvam

sa-hasra vid-hirita vish-vam

bhara maņḍalāya-anantāya

bar-a manda-laya anan-taya

nāgarājāya namaḥ

nagara-jaya nama-ha

ābāhu purușākāram

a-ba-hu puru-shaka-ram

śańkhacakrāsi dhāriņam

shankha-ca-krasi dhari-nam

sahasra śirasam śvetam

sa-hasra shira-sam sway-tam

praņamāmi patañjalim

prana-mani patan-jalim

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I am not flexible; can I still practice yoga?

A: Yes! Aaron was just as unflexible as anyone when he started practicing. Learning how to engage and how to release the soft tissue that connects bones is all part of what is to be learned in yoga. Whether we need to build endurance or learn to be more flexible, everyone starts where they are and develops a more balanced embodiment through the commitment to practice.

Q: What if I am not very good at yoga? Will I hold the rest of the class up?

A: Not at all! There is a benefit to starting with intro classes or private lessons if you are new to Yogastha Sadhana, but it is not necessary if looked at appropriately. Be inspired by others, after all, there was a time they were new too. Grooming a new group of students to move steadily through a whole series class takes a LONG time. A new person joining in with a groomed group can quickly take off. Group classes have a potency that helps uplift everyone. By showing up for ourselves, we are showin up for others

Q: Do I have to practice every day?

A: No. Start by making the commitment to come back next week. Then add a second class per week after a few sessions. Daily practice comes with time and starts with a reasonable commitment that can be held to fairly. If you feel inspired to practice on other days class is not offered, try working on the 9 positions of Sun Salute A or just getting on the mat for some movement. Usually as a student is ready for more, the path will show the way.

Q: What kind of yoga mat should I have?

A: That is entirely up to you. Any old sticky mat will do just fine starting off, but a good yoga mat will make a difference eventually. It is ok to let some time pass before making a decision on which mat to get. Those who you are practicing with regularly can provide their insights. Aaron's Manduka Pro Mat has held up just fine since day one and that is what he would recommend. It is worth noting that some mats absorb moisture, so they are not slippery. Unfortunately, these also absorb sweat and bacteria and can develop an unpleasant odor over time. Sometimes it is appropriate to replace absorbant mats more frequently to be respectful in group classes.

Q: What is the etiquette for group classes?

A: As with any group gathering, it is appropriate to be mindful and considerate of others and how your actions will have an impact. Yoga practice is a time to turn away from the outer world and cultivate something deeper inwards. Please leave excess accessories, including phones, glasses, jewelry, etc., by the shoe/coat racks for the duration of class time. Showering after class is common sense. Showering before helps with exfoliating the skin and allows it to sweat and breathe appropriately throughout class. Not everyone's schedule may allow for this, and that is perfectly fine. Simply freshening up before class is being considerate enough. Something to prevent body odor from becoming obtrusive is necessary for this enviroment. A mat towel and hand towel can be helpful, especially if youre slipping at all in the hands. If you are a heavy sweater, be sure to let your mat towels and clothes dry out if they are not going to be washed promptly; this will help pevent mildew. Regularly wiping down your yoga mat is recommended. Sauca is sanskrit of cleaniliness, and strats off the niyamas, or second limb of yoga. Vinyasa yoga proudly supports bodily health by promting strong joints and deep breaths and the sacredness of healing.

Q: How much water should I bring to class?

A: The better question is, did you drink enough water throughout the day so you are hydrated? Drinking water during practice is not recommended for the sake of the practitioner's development. Water takes time for the body to absorb fully, and water cools down the heat that is being cultivated. In the meantime, water is sloshing around in the stomach, making it easier for abdominal cramps to come. Child's pose or a few extra breaths in down dog can be helpful with staying regulated. Once you are comfortable not drinking water during class, it can be left with other personal items for after class. This will also help keep Aaron from tripping over it while giving assists. Once class is over, drink plenty of water to replenish what was released through practice.

Q: Why are there so many rules?!

A: They are less rules and more cues, asking for your attention. It can take time for a cue to make sense... thats part of the transformation process. The most important cue to remember is keeping the compass pointed in the direction of more sattva and more sadhana and more trust in what you are capable of.

Please feel free to ask Aaron for clarification if any questions arise. Nothing listed above is a hard rule or will be used for judgment; they are simply offered for consideration with relating to other practitioners in community settings.