Questions:
2. Am I too (pick any) young, old, overweight, out-of-shape for Yoga?
3. What are the benefits of Yoga?
4. Who is the Instructor at Heart and Soul Yoga?
5. How much do the classes cost?
6. What should I bring to class?
7. How should I dress for class?
9. How long and how many times should I practice Yoga when not in class?
10. Where is the Heart and Soul Studio located?
11. Anything else I should know about?
Answers:
1. Yoga is a science and philosophy originating over 5,000 years ago from India. Yoga is a Sanskrit word meaning 'union'. It is a system of practices to relax the body and mind creating a 'union' or integration of body, mind and spirit. Despite current images of Yoga practitioners in "pretzel"-like postures, yoga can be practiced by anyone, whatever your state of health, age, flexibility or level of physical fitness. [Top]
2. As mentioned above, yoga can be practiced by anyone, no matter their state of health, age, flexibility or fitness level. [Top]
3. There are over two hundred Yoga poses which can be grouped into five different types:
* Standing Poses
* Forward bends
* Backbends
* Inversions
* Twists
Each pose has many individual benefits. The following are just some of the benefits that can be gained from a regular practice that includes a variety of these types of poses.
Standing Poses build strength and endurance which supports increased flexibility. Strength, power and mobility is improved in the feet, legs and hips creating a strong base of support for the spine, legs and hips. They relieve tension, aches, and pains in the torso, legs, hips, shoulders, and arms. They improve blood circulation, stimulate digestion and elimination, build heat for other poses, and eliminate dullness and depression increasing vitality and energy levels.
Forward Bends are soothing and calming and increase circulation and stimulation to the abdominal area, aiding and balancing digestion and elimination, relieving such problems as constipation & indigestion as well as diminishing PMS symptoms and relieving cramps. They stretch and lengthen the back and legs relieving tension and increasing circulation & flexibility to the feet, leg, hips, lower back, spine, torso and neck.
Backbends are stimulating, energizing, strengthening and confidence building. They open the chest, abdomen, and pelvis improving the functioning of the lungs, abdominal organs and reproductive organs. They increase youthfulness by keeping the spine supple.
Inversions revitalize the whole body, reverse the effects of gravity and increase circulation and stimulation to the brain, harmonizing and nourishing all the body systems creating a clean, clear mind. Hormones, the nervous system and emotions are balanced. Metabolism is regulated. Relieves strain & fatigue in the legs and improves circulation, venous return and lymph drainage nourishing and improving youthfulness in the face. These poses a re particularly good at the end of a stressful day because they are calming and soothing to the brain and nerves.
Twists are deeply cleansing and nourishing, releasing toxins and tension from the entire body. They improve mobility and strength in the spine which improves circulation and energy for the whole back and abdomen. With the torso rotation, kidneys and abdominal organs are toned improving digestion and elimination, balancing metabolism and burning fat. Backaches, headaches and stiffness in the shoulders and neck are relieved. Perception, hearing and eyesight can be improved making us more aware of ourselves and others.
4. Cecelia Scharn Norman is the yoga instructor. She has studied yoga for over 10 years and has been a Registered Nurse for over 15 years, certified Reiki Level I and Healing Touch, Level IIB. She believes Yoga is a path of healing for body & mind. Encouraging students to use each pose as an opportunity to become more in touch with their bodies, hearts and souls. Teaching Yoga is a practice that is cultivated, not forced, melting our conflicts in life with Yoga by becoming balanced, centered, flexible, strong and light without pain. With each pose an opportunity to discover the center of peace within each one of us. [Top]
5. For a list of current rates, please click here. [Top]
Classes also available at World Gym of New Braunfels (no membership required) for $15 each (summer pass not valid). [Top]
6. Bring a yoga mat and a blanket (available for sale at the studio). [Top]
7. Wear loose, comfortable clothing like exercise wear, t-shirt, sweats or shorts with elastic waist. [Top]
8. For a detailed set of maps and driving instructions, please click here to go to our Maps section. [Top]
9. A daily practice of at least 20 min will bring the most noticeable benefits. At least 3 days a week will also be beneficial, but results will not be seen as quickly. [Top]
10. Click for maps and directions to the studio. [Top]
11. Here's some additional useful information.
- Try not eating for at least 1.5 - 2 hours before attending class.
- Don't worry if you cannot perform a certain pose. Poses can always be modified to accommodate your skill and comfort level.
- Leave items such as watches, cell phones, pagers and jewelry outside the studio.
- No shoes inside, please.
- A small bathroom is located in-studio which can be used for a changing room.
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