The majority of Yoga focuses on breathing and releasing stress. Our yoga and studio guidelines reflect an environment where everyone’s practice can flourish. Namaste.
Before You Begin Your Practice
Yoga Guidelines and Studio Etiquette
Practice on an Empty Stomach
Approximately 2 hours after a meal, making sure your meal is completely digested. If this is not possible, eat as light as possible; a piece of fruit or a few almonds, to boost your energy and curb your hunger. Drink water throughout the day, and after class, but not during class in order to support the internal digestive heat being built.
Before and After Class
We ask that you keep your voice low, and to a minimum while in the studio to offer a space for those who want to meditate or center before and after class. Kindly extend this courtesy to our massage practitioners if you are waiting on the porch or going upstairs. Studio door opens 10 minutes prior to class time.
Use a Yoga Sticky Mat
Please bring your own mat. For your safety, standard thickness is 4-5mm, and no more than 6mm should be used. If you need a mat until you get your own, let us know. We have knee mats (and other tricks) if you need more support for your knees and joints.
We also have blocks, straps, bolsters, and blankets. If you prefer, feel free to bring your own.
What to Wear
Wear loosely fitted, modest, comfortable layers, and have bare feet. Natural fabrics are best to allow the body to breathe. Avoid clothing and undergarments that restricts or constricts the body's natural circulation and energy flow.
Use Non-Scented Products and Detergents
When washing your yoga clothes and items you wear to the studio, please use unscented detergents, fabric softeners, and dryer sheets. Avoid using body care scents, and perfumes on day of class. Even some essential oils can trigger asthma and allergies.
Please be aware that studies show links between synthetic fragrances/dyes and chronic illness.
Take a Break from Phones and Smart Watches
We offer a sanctuary for those who want to disconnect from the everyday stressors. Please turn off and remove all devices prior to entering the studio. If you have an emergency situation and need your phone, please let your teacher know prior to class starting.
Health Concerns
Please let us know, prior to attending class, if you have health concerns. Some examples are, but not limited to, high blood pressure, ulcers, chronic pain, osteopathic conditions, or recovering from illness or injury. Our group classes are not suitable for those who are pregnant or for those who are currently injured. If your health changes, or you become pregnant, it is your responsibility to contact us, prior to attending class again. We will have a teacher evaluate and suggest the best way to benefit your current needs.
Avoid Using Pain Medicine Before Class
In Yoga, we are exploring and learning about our boundaries within the body. Taking pain medication dampens the ability to judge your limits and may lead to overextending, and possible injury. Instead notice which poses alleviate the pain or discomfort in the body and use those poses, when you need them, to manage pain in your daily life.
Listen to your Body
Develop an awareness of your limits; work gently and consistently to extend them. Avoid pulling strenuously, bouncing, straining or forcing yourself into, or out of, a pose. Instead focus on lengthening and strengthening. If you experience fatigue or agitation, come out of the pose slowly and rest on your mat on your back or in child’s pose.
Be in the Moment
Yoga changes your life, the benefits are wonderful, however mastering yoga takes time. Be patient, relax, and enjoy each breath…….
Restorative Class Information
In addition to the above guidelines, below are some specific guidelines for an enjoyable restorative class for all.
Studio door opens 15 minutes prior to class time.
It is a good idea not to have caffeine 6-8 hours prior to class time.
What to Wear
Restorative poses are passive, we will keep the room warm, but you may want more layers than what you wear in your regular class…socks, a warm sweatshirt/sweater /scarf, a cozy hat – anything that you love to wear will enhance the experience.
What to Bring
- Yoga Mat
- *One Small Face Towel
- Eye pillow/mask or other covering for eyes
You can bring your own or use ours....
Yoga Strap / Two – 4” blocks / *Yoga Bolster / *Yoga Blanket
*To keep our props in good condition, please use a small face towel to place between your face and the prop. Be mindful when returning props to prop room, placing them back in a good order for your fellow students in the next class.
IMPORTANT:
*Due to those with allergies and sensitivities, if you have fur babies, we ask that you keep the props you bring to class, especially bolsters and blankets, in a separate “pet-free” zone. If you use your mat at home, please shake out prior to bringing to class. Thank You!