faq's
yoga for all ages, bodies and levels of fitness
yoga zone is founded on the belief that yoga should be accessible to everyone. Our studio is an encouraging, non-judgmental environment in which people at all levels can practice. However, it is understandable that if you are new to the practice of yoga, you will have questions or concerns about whether yoga is right for you.
Here we address some of the most frequently asked questions about Bikram and Power Vinyasa yoga practices:
Q. I've never done yoga before. Is this yoga suitable for beginners?
Yes. The classes are geared to suit all students ranging from complete novices to seasoned yogis.
Bikram yoga postures are simple and easy to grasp, therefore well-suited to beginners. However, the sequence is also challenging enough to fully engage more experienced students because the postures can be done at greater and greater depth.
Power Vinyasa yoga is somewhat more demanding because it moves in flowing sequences. It is by no means a more "advanced" yoga, just a different style. The first class might be a little confusing for beginners; however, the postures are learnt very quickly. We encourage beginners to pace themselves in class and recommend relatively frequent attendance in the first week (3 to 4 classes). This will create a solid physical base and an understanding of the postures that will be the foundation of strength, focus, stamina and flexibility in yoga practice.
Q. What does 'Yoga' mean?
'Yoga' is an ancient Sanskrit word meaning to join or to yoke, thereby creating a union. Its origins can be traced back to 5000 years ago. The word's meaning encompasses the union of body, mind and spirit. It also refers to taming incessant thought waves of the mind so that the soul can experience stillness and a meditative state can be nurtured.
For our culture, yoga is about reducing the stress of a modern lifestyle through deep relaxation and body work. A quiet mind and healthy body can counteract tension and instil balance in everyday life.
Q. What is the difference between Power Yoga and Bikram Yoga?
These are two different styles within the same yoga family i.e. Hatha Yoga. Bikram is slower with concentrated postures and deeper stretches. It follows a fixed sequence of 26 asanas.
Power Vinyasa is a more dynamic, faster form of yoga which synchronises breath with movement - the posture sequence flows in correspondence with inhalations and exhalations (Vinyasa) and there is more variety in the series.
Q. How often should I practice?
Ideally you want to practice 3 to 6 times a week - more or less depending on your lifestyle. Successful yoga practice requires commitment, discipline and wisdom. Attending classes regularly is the key to receiving all of yoga's benefits. You will see results if you cultivate the spirit of repetition and dedication in your practice.
Q. What If I am not flexible?
It doesn't matter. Yoga is not about being able to bend into impressive postures. It is about stretching and strengthening your body according to your own personal capacity; it is about breathing and staying present in the moment. If you maintain the correct form of the asana (posture) and practice with effort, energy and enthusiasm you are guaranteed to receive 100% of the benefit yielded by yoga. Above all, we encourage you to develop a flexible mind. Focus on letting go, breathing and respecting your own limitations.
Frequent yoga practice will undoubtedly increase your flexibility. However, until that time remember that the ultimate benefit of yoga (to unite body, mind and spirit) can be experienced regardless of whether or not you're able to touch your toes.
Q. Is yoga a cardiovascular workout and can I lose weight?
No matter what your fitness level you will find both Bikram and Power Vinyasa yoga a very challenging cardiovascular workout. Each posture combines strength, flexibility and balance to work your whole body from the inside out. With persistence, patience, and dedication, you can shed excess fat in addition to developing muscle tone and strength that might never come from other forms of exercise.
It is vital to respect that there are many different body types and that not all bodies are meant to be slim. What is important is that your body is healthy, your metabolism steady and that you are not carrying excess weight for your body-type. Let's not prescribe to the "got to be thin to look good" craze.
What you will see is a general toning of the body: your clothes will fit better, your posture will improve and your skin will GLOW!
Q. Why is the studio heated and will this make the class more challenging for me?
Both Bikram and Power Vinyasa Yoga are practiced in a hot room because the heat helps to stretch muscle fibres and tendons, helping to prevent injuries to these areas while exercising. The heat also increases blood circulation to tissues and organs, enhancing the immune system functions.
In addition, the heat makes classes more challenging. It raises the heart rate, stimulates detoxing perspiration and makes for an great cardiovascular workout. Your first few classes may be challenging and some people may feel momentarily dizzy at times. Do not be alarmed, these feelings will very soon pass and you will find a renewed sense of strength and power.
Please see Why the heat? for more information.
Q. When can I expect to see progress in my yoga practice?
Each person will respond differently to yoga depending on numerous factors such as age, physical condition, body history and genetics. Rather than measuring "progress," it is far more valuable to simply embrace where your practice is at present and let go of any self-imposed goals. Yoga is truly a life-long pursuit; one that you can explore as long as you live and never learn all there is to know. Yoga practice is about the journey, not the destination.
Q. What are some of the benefits of these types of yoga?
Please see the Benefits page under Bikram Yoga or Power Yoga.
Q. What should I wear/bring to class?
Please see the New Students page.
Q. Is there parking in the building?
There is ample 24 hour parking in the building. Bring your parking ticket to reception for a yoga zone stamp which entitles you a discount flat rate pass.
Contact us if you have other questions.