Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What exactly is yoga?
Q2: I'm not flexible. Can I really do yoga?
Q3: I'd like to try, but I've heard that yoga is a religion. I'm concerned that it might conflict with my religious tradition.
Q4: I'm confused by all the styles. What's the difference - and what kind of yoga is practiced at Shakti?
Q5: I've tried yoga classes at my gym. What's different about practicing at Shakti?
Q6: Do guys do yoga?

Q1: What exactly is yoga?

The word "yoga" means union. In simplest terms, it is the practice of uniting breath, movement and mindfulness. There are many styles of yoga, ranging from gentle stretching and deep breathing that relax and nurture, to very rigorous, athletic routines that build strength and stamina, challenging body and mind. Each form has its own benefits and uses. Whatever the style, all forms of yoga have in common the practice of physical postures (called asanas), specific breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditative practices to calm, quiet and still the mind. Without a conscious effort to link breath, body and mind, one is not doing yoga; it's simply a physical exercise. Yoga requires mindfulness, open-ness, listening inward, connecting with your true spirit, and staying present.

Q2: I'm not flexible. Can I really do yoga?

Probably the most common misconception about yoga is that it's about Cirque du Soleil-like contortions - it's not! True, yoga is an excellent method for increasing flexibility (an important component of overall fitness), but the aim is to create balance - of flexibility and strength, in body and mind. If you can breathe, you can do yoga... or at least start yourself on your path.

Q3: I'd like to try, but I've heard that yoga is a religion. I'm concerned that it might conflict with my religious tradition.

Yoga is absolutely NOT a religion. It can be and is practiced by people of all faiths and religious traditions. Because yoga is mindful, inner-directed and often a means for self-transformation, it is considered by many a spiritual practice - a process of connecting with one's true self or higher spirit. There is nothing you need to believe in, or any "god" or deity you need to recognize in order to practice yoga. Rather, the essence of yoga is embracing the one-ness of all people and paths - acknowledging the inherent goodness and inter-connectedness of all beings and things in the Universe. And while the roots of yoga are in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, the experience of yoga is intensely personal and individual. Yoga becomes whatever it is to you. At Shakti, we want you to feel a sense of serenity and peace. In our studio, you will see an "altar." It was created simply to honor the rich history of yoga and the diversity of people, paths and ideals that can inspire one to "be more." The large carved elephant is of the Hindu deity, Ganesh, known as the "Remover of Obstacles." It serves as a reminder of yoga's ability to remove obstacles in life!

Q4: I'm confused by all the styles. What's the difference - and what kind of yoga is practiced at Shakti?

At Shakti, we embrace all yoga traditions and strive to offer a diversity of class styles to make yoga accessible to varying abilities and tastes. HATHA Yoga is a general term for the practice of physical postures. Shakti's dominant styles are VINYASA, which refers to linked sequences of flowing yoga postures. . All our classes emphasize proper alignment, attention to breath and spine, meditation and mindfulness in the lineage of yoga masters, B.K.S. Iyengar and Desikachar — known for their precise attention to anatomy and use of props or other modifications to adapt postures to individual needs. Finally, each teacher also brings his/her unique quality to yoga. The best way to find "your yoga" really is to experiment. Try a variety of classes to see what resonates with you... and have fun. Enjoy the process!

Q5: I've tried yoga classes at my gym. What's different about practicing at Shakti?

Unlike the large and often noisy classes at many gyms and fitness centers, sessions at Shakti are small and intimate, with lots of individual attention for maximum benefit - and safety. While there are many excellent yoga teachers at gyms (including some of our own instructors!), fitness industry professionals usually only require a weekend of training to be "certified" to teach yoga. Each of our teachers has completed a comprehensive certification and training program of no less than 200 classroom hours, in line with the national standards of The Yoga Alliance. Our experienced, friendly teachers will meet you wherever you are - beginner to advanced - and will guide, challenge and inspire!

Q6: Do guys do yoga?

YES!