NEW TO
PRANA YOGA CENTER?

+ What can I expect from my first class?

Each class, style and teacher will offer a unique experience. A typical class begins with a seated warm up to prepare the body and create breath awareness. You will then be guided through a series of poses with a logical sequence which leads to an apex pose. All classes end with final relaxation which allows time for the mind-body integration.

Our class styles vary depending upon how the poses are sequenced, how long the poses are held, and the intensity of the practice. We recommend trying all of our class styles to determine which style best meets your needs. You may find you need a combination of class styles as your needs and preferences will change week to week and overtime as your practice evolves. One thing is for sure, you will never get bored with yoga if you begin to dive deep into the rich body of knowledge it offers.

*Please bring you own mat to class

+ Do I need to pre register for classes?

Prana Yoga Center is committed to providing our students a positive experience each time you practice with us. To ensure a quality experience, we limit our In-Person class sizes and encourage you to sign up early to secure your spot. We have an 8 Hour Class Withdrawal Policy- If you have registered for a class and cannot attend, we kindly ask that you cancel 8 hours in advance to provide space for another student.

+ How is infrared heat different?

Two reasons: 1) it’s clean…no forced air blowing on you 2) the therapeutic benefits are amazing…infrared heat directly penetrates your tissues, muscles, and joints, enabling increased flexibility, increased circulation, and a detoxifying sweat. We provide the latest in studio technology that includes infrared heat, medical grade Surgically Clean Air systems, and antimicrobial botanical hospital disinfectant and fungicide registered with the EPA.

+ How often should I practice yoga?

The benefits of a consistent yoga practice include improved physical strength, increased flexibility & range of motion and a greater overall sense of well being.

To achieve results we recommend a practice of 2 times a week or more. A consistent practice will help you look better, feel better, experience more physical energy and mental clarity. Making time for a weekly yoga practice has never been easier with our Video On Demand option!

+ What tips do you have for a great yoga practice?

• Arrive 10-15 minutes before class to check in, get your mat and props ready and center yourself.

• Get to know your yoga teacher. Our dedicated, experienced yoga instructors can provide a great deal of insight and guidance as you progress in your practice. They can answer your questions before and after class regarding proper alignment, injuries, breath and more.

• Wear comfortable clothing. The right clothes can make a world of difference in class. Select a supportive top and yoga pants made from breathable materials with moisture-wicking features. For cooler weather, you may want to invest in thermal athletic gear you can easily layer to stay warm.

• Modify the practice for your body & needs. As a beginner, it may be difficult to practice every pose in your class. Your instructor can help provide modifications and adaptations as well as the use blocks, straps, or blankets.

• Begin where you are. Yoga is a transformative journey meant to lead you forward, whether your goal is less stress, better health, or inner peace. Knowing where you are can show you where to begin. We offer a variety of classes, choose ones to suit your level of experience and fitness.

• Avoid making comparisons. Yoga is an individual journey, there is no reason to judge yourself compared to others. You can draw motivation, appreciation, and inspiration from their abilities, but don’t beat yourself up if you’re at a different point in your practice.

• Go slow. Don’t rush yourself. Take time to fully experience each pose. Yoga is purposeful, mindful, and fluid. By moving slowly, you can continue to make sustainable progress as you practice. Slow, purposeful movement also helps prevent injury, boosts your mindfulness, and improves your overall concentration.

• Focus on your foundation. Much like the foundation of a building, your hands and feet form the foundation of your body. Your body depends on a strong and steady foundation to properly hold each pose. Pay attention to the way your hands and feet are positioned and spread your fingertips and toes to build a firm base of support.

• Maintain a regular yoga practice. Frequent short practices will be more effective than fewer longer ones. A few poses for 15-30 minutes a day can have a huge impact on your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

• Stay hydrated. While it isn’t recommended to drink during yoga, there are some ways that you can stay hydrated throughout your practice. About an hour before class, start sipping a 16-ounce bottle of water. Drink another 20 ounces after you’ve finished your yoga class to replace fluids.

• Remove distractions. Worries, to-do lists, and smartphone notifications all need to be set aside for a successful class. Write down your to-do list before your practice and turn your phone off. Shift your focus away from worries and instead focus on your breath, body, and intentions while practicing.

• Set an intention. Setting intentions for your yoga classes can help you feel motivated to work towards your goals. An intention is a purpose for your practice, which can change for each session if you prefer. Your intention is a tool to focus your mind away from thoughts and distractions, towards feelings of peace, kindness, acceptance, or whatever else is needed in your life.

• **Breathe. **The flow of your breath is essential in yoga classes. By breathing slowly and deeply throughout your regular routine, you increase circulation and reduce stress while stimulating your mind and body. Yogic breathing helps reduce the risk of injury, allowing your body to relax as it moves through different poses.

• Eat mindfully. Try not to eat anything 2-3 hours before class otherwise you’ll feel some discomfort in poses that put pressure on your belly. If you’re hungry, a light snack can help you fuel up for your class. Many people prefer to snack on small portions of almonds, fiber-packed fruits, or sports bars. Avoid greasy or garlicky foods before your class.

• Respect your body’s limits. Knowing your physical and mental limits is vital to succeeding in yoga. Listen to your body as you stretch, move, and breathe. If you have trouble breathing or experience pain, adjust the pose until you can do it without struggling. Keep in mind that some poses aren’t for everyone. Injuries, pregnancy, and chronic illness can make certain poses ill-advised.

• Cultivate a sense of humor. Having a healthy sense of humor can help you navigate moments when you feel uncomfortable, awkward, or even embarrassed trying out new yoga poses. You don’t have to be perfect as you move through different postures. In fact, smiling and internally laughing during yoga classes can help you remain relaxed and calm.

• **Savor Savasana. **Savasana, the final relaxation pose, might be the most difficult posture in the class. Many of us are accustomed to being constantly active and busy, and lying still with our thoughts and feelings can be a challenging experience. Practice shifting your attention to the sensations of your body relaxing and consciously work on releasing stress and tension during the pose.

+ I AM AN EXPECTING MOTHER — CAN I TAKE REGULAR YOGA CLASSES?

Prana Yoga Center believes that pregnancy is a miraculous time and must be uniquely managed. For the safety of mom & baby, and the most beneficial practice for this transformative time in a woman’s life, it is a studio policy that expecting mothers may not attend general population yoga classes.