Yoga FAQ

We are attracted to particular paths and branches of yoga depending on our needs.
Yoga is more than only postures. A yoga practice includes Asana (postures), Dharana (concentration), Pranayama (breath) and Dhyana (meditation).

Sanskrit is a language of ancient India. It is considered a sacred language because it originated directly from the deep meditative experiences of the Rishis, or sages who lived in the Indus Valley and became a written language around 1500 BC. Linguistically speaking, Sanskrit is in the same family of languages as one of the earliest attested Indo-European language.

We use Sanskrit names when referring to asanas as well as in other mantra practices and meditations. For instance the pose Downward Facing Dog in Sanskrit is Adho Mukha Svanasana. Pronouncing these names serves as a reminder of yoga’s ancient practices.

Prana means that which is infinitely everywhere and ayama means to stretch or extend. Simply put, it refers to the regulation of prana or the vital forces of the breath. On the deepest level, the purpose of working with our breath is to affect the mind. The breath and mind are as intimately connected as a two-sided coin. This relationship becomes apparent when we observe the breath in various situations, i.e. a stressful condition. It is a barometer for the condition of our mind and a means to affect change, to quiet the flow so that we are able to experience a quiet, peaceful mind.

The breath in relationship to postures guides us and helps to release tensions in the body. It is important while practicing yoga to work to keep a nice steady, even breath and then move into the poses from the full consciousness of your own breath. When you approach your practice with the consciousness of breath first, then movement, tension or strain in your breath becomes an indication that you have gone beyond the limitations of your body. Your breath becomes the intelligence guiding you appropriately through your practice.

Dhyana is meditation. Meditation is quieting the chatter of the “monkey mind” in order to merge the mind and body into the Self, the consciousness that resides within. Having thoughts during meditation is normal. The goal is not necessarily to not have thoughts at all, it is awareness of the thoughts, like a pendulum. When we have the awareness of the thoughts, bring it back to our mantra. Meditation is incorporated into the practice in many ways, there is brief meditation incorporated into my yoga classes at the beginning and end in Savasana (corpse pose). Also separate time is scheduled for meditation classes. Meditation takes practice and as much discipline of the mind as training the body for physical challenges.

We carry and can place orders for Young Living Essential Oils and blends. Young Living sets the standard for essential oils purity, authenticity and potency. They are grown from seed to distillation and testing with the highest quality and guaranteed. We carry some blends and singles when in stock. We can always order a blend or recommend an oil that you are needing for a particular remedy.