What is Yoga?
Yoga is a profound system of holistic health which originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It was first put into written form as the Yoga Sutras. The author was Patanjali (pronounced pa-tan-ja-li). Since the original work was in Sanskrit, there are many translations and interpretations. Yoga is defined in the sutras as having eight limbs or branches. It is the third limb "Asana" (pronounced a-san-a), which refers to postures or Yoga poses that most people perceive as Yoga. The study of asana and physical culture is called Hatha Yoga (pronounced hut-ha with the "th" aspirated)..
Do I have to tie myself in a knot to do Yoga?
Certainly not. The goal of Yoga, according to the Yoga Sutras, is liberation (kaivalya), not to do the head stand or the lotus pose. An intermediate step is to "Quiet the mind," something that most Westerners could certainly benefit from. The Yoga poses that you use should be selected to fit your individual needs based on your physical and mental condition, as well as your age.
What are some of the benefits of Yoga?
Perhaps the first and most profound benefit that most Westerners notice is stress reduction. The next benefit that all physicians support is circulation. Although Hatha Yoga does improve your flexibility, most people are not aware that Yoga asanas are also good for strength. The whole idea is a balance of strength and flexibility. Once the system comes closer to balance, most practitioners notice an increase in vitality and an overall sense of well-being. The benefits of Yoga do not occur overnight, but the results are lasting.
Is Yoga safe?
Yes its a beautiful way to connect mind, body, spirit and emotional aspects of you in a safe, nurturing way. You are responsible for being mindful of your body and gentle in your practice.
Just be sure you are in the right class and inform the instructor of any potential problems, injuries, difficulties you have. Communication is key to progression and deepening your understanding of this ancient wisdom and applying your learnings to everyday life. Live and Love your yoga.
How do I find the right place to take a Yoga class?
It is advisable to try and compare several places. Most important is, which place has the overall environment that makes you feel most comfortable. There is a very wide spectrum of environments in what you will experience. The biggest differences are between the physical difficulty levels of the classes, number of peeps in a session, style of yoga and so on. You need to feel your way, and if you want your Yoga class to be a work-out, a work-in, or some where in-between. A good Yoga class should incorporate the concept of body, breath and mind.
In no case should you allow someone to push or intimidate you into doing something that does not feel intuitively right.
How often should I go to a Yoga class?
Ideally, at least two or three times per week. Some people keep their life on track and make some progress by coming once a week, and many people get really motivated by Yoga and come everyday. It depends on the individual and his or her needs.
Is Yoga co-ed?
Yes, on the average there are more women in Yoga classes than men; however some Yoga schools have an almost equal ratio. It depends where you are located.
How much does Yoga cost?
On average $15 - $20 per class, less per session if you book a course/yoga pass
What do you wear to a Yoga class?
There is a wide variety of clothing worn in Yoga classes, depending on how physical the class is and the temperature of the room. However, Yoga clothing, like that of other fitness classes, is also a personal expression.
How long should a Yoga class be?
The length of a Yoga class varies from 50 minutes to one and a half hours. Health clubs and corporate classes are usually close to one hour. Yoga centers are usually one hour and fifteen minutes to an hour and a half long. At Radiant Being a typical class in one hour twenty minutes, including a breathing, physical movement, and relaxation phase. Shorter sessions are also available in the workplace.
What is Yoga Therapy?
A simple answer is that Yoga Therapy is usually offered one on one for people that are not able to participate in a regular group class. Some of the many ailments successfully treated with Yoga Therapy are: lower and upper back problems, hypertension and heart disease, asthma and diabetes. A good Yoga therapist often works in conjunction with or is recommended by doctors. Hayley offfers one-to one sessions of yoga therapy. Contact us for more details
What styles of yoga does radiant being offer and how do I book in?
- Aerial Yoga
- SUP Yoga (Yoga on a Stand up Paddleboard)
- Hatha Yoga
- Vinyasa Flow
- Yin and Restorative
- Private classes
- Group classes
You can book in by sending an email to info@radiantbeing.com.au, sms 0415 985 046, or calling to check current class menu.
Updates on all sessions running are here.
Radiant Being offer Yoga classes in Albany, and Denmark, Western Australia, and on Global Retreats Worldwide.