Consciousness is all there is.

FAQ

1. I am pregnant and would really like to come to yoga. Is that possible?

Yes. There is no specific class offered purely for pregnant women. However, in the Mysore style class, our teachers can offer you a specific sequence created for pregnancy. As every pregnancy has it’s own complications these should be discussed before any class begins so the teacher may incorporate individual and specific adjustments.

2. Am I covered by medical insurance?

Officially no. Some companies will cover a part of the costs. Our experience shows that a regular yoga practice is the most effective for premium health if practiced over a longer period of time. Most medical insurance companies see this differently. So we have introduced a Rabat system and we conduct classes in such a way that they meet certain requirements of the companies. At regular intervals we also offer specific classes recognized by the insurance companies as deductibles.

3. I have never done yoga before. How do I start?

If you have never done yoga or participated in something similar then we recommend you begin with “Ashtanga for beginners” or “Inspya Level 1”. However, if these timings don’t suit you then you may also participate in a Mysore class as these are also individually guided. Your Yoma-Team offers you their 100% percent personal and professional advice.

4. I have done other yoga classes before. What is the difference with Ashtanga?

Ashtanga is practiced following a specific sequence of postures. These postures build upon each other and are changed with the rhythm of your breath. Mysore style is practiced on an individual basis, guided, directed and corrected by the teacher in order to find your own rhythm and at your own pace.

5. What is Mysore Style?

Mysore is a city in India which brought the practice of Ashtanga yoga to the west. The founders of Ashtanga Shri K. Pattabhi Jois and his teacher T. Krishnamachaya are both from Mysore. Mysore is the traditional way of teaching Ashtanga. You work through the sequence independently being guided by the teacher who will teach you the different postures as you advance through the poses at your own individual pace.

6. Do I have to know the series off by heart before coming to my first Mysore class?

No, everyone is lead through the class individually.

7. I have heard that Ashtanga yoga is the most traditional style of yoga. What does that mean?

There are many different yoga traditions. Ashtanga is the stem form of the dynamic Vinyasa Yoga which has now morphed into other styles like Power yoga or Jivamukti yoga.

8. What does Ashtanga mean?

The name Ashtanga comes from the Yoga Sutras of Pantajali and means ” The eight limbs or paths”

(Asta= 8, Anga= limbs or paths)

9. Where can I read more about Ashtanga?

For example in the Internet www.ashtangayoga.info

10. As the series always follows the same postures doesn’t it become boring?

No. Ashtanga is an active form of meditation. After a short time the student learns the sequence and the flow of breathe controls the overactive thinking. The breathe becomes controlled and quiet. The inner calm spreads then to the often troubled mind.

The teacher gives new impulses depending on the constitution, which are either in the buildup of the series or in the deepening of ones own practice.

11. What is Inspya Yoga?

Inspya (Integrated South Pacific Yoga Academy)  was founded by the Australian Lance Schuler. Inspya unites different elements of various styles into a new dynamic form of practice. Unlike Ashtanga yoga there is no set sequence of postures rather specific themes that are worked on during the class. For example this could be the working on opening up the shoulders or strengthening the spinal column.

12.  Is Ashtanga yoga only meant for young and athletic types?

No, with the simplification and modifications of the exercises geared toward the individual whether they’re pregnant, old, handicapped or recovering from an illness makes Ashtanga the perfect vehicle to learn and practice.

13. I have a sporting injury/scoliosis etc. Can I still do yoga?

Yes, also here we can create a sequence that integrates the injury or illness into the postures better to look after the individuals requirements.

14. Why is there so much emphasis on the correct breathing?

The breath is the most important aspect of Yoga. Through a quiet and regular breathing the mind can be stilled. The physically demanding practice is the training ground for this.

Inspite of the challenging postures we aim to keep a steady and balanced breathing.

When we become conscious of our breath we are able to integrate this into our daily life.

15. How often should I practice?

Anything is better than nothing. The traditionalists practice 6 times a week. The practice should be integrated into your daily life as stress free as possible, without pressure. 15 minutes a day is better, through our experience, than once a week for 4 hours straight.

16. Can I drink during the class?

You should try to not drink anything ca. 30 minutes before the beginning of the class. We don’t normally drink during the practice. A detoxification and cleansing process is initiated by your perspiration. Your liquids should be replaced at the end of the class.

17. Do I need my own yoga mat?

No. Yoma has more than enough fresh mats for everyone. For hygiene reasons it is advised to use your own mat.

18. What do I need to bring to the class?

The best clothing is tight fitting sportswear (and bare feet). Yoma has a change room also available.

19. Is there yoga etiquette?

In general it is respecting the studio and the people in it. That means, cell phones switched off and being aware of your personal hygiene. During a Mysore class which needs to be as quiet as possible speaking is reduced to an absolute minimum.

20. What are the moon days?

The moon days are either the full or the new moon. The practice should not be done on these days if you are practicing regularly. The traditionalists believe that the chance of injury is greatly increased on these two days month.