FAQ'S
Q: I’m intimidated. Will most students in the class be advanced practitioners? What are the pre-requisites to start yoga?
A: Most yoga students are relative beginners and many are absolute beginners. Each class has a broad representation of ages and body types, but over time and with REGULAR practice, EVERYONE gets stronger and healthier. We offer a wide variety of classes. Our staff is happy to offer you a class recommendation suited to your needs.
Q: How often should I practice?
A: As regularly as possible, but a minimum of two or three days a week is recommended. Practicing once a week is better than nothing, but greater frequency increases balance, strength and flexibility. Make yoga a priority and the rewards are infinite!
Q: What are the benefits of yoga?
A: The physical and psychological benefits of yoga are innumerable and well documented. Some of the benefits of a regular yoga practice include mental clarity, stress reduction, increased strength and flexibility, improved digestion, detoxification and an overall sense of well-being.
Q: Which style is right for my first class?
A: The selection of your first class is very individual. We often send beginners to either a gentle or basics class. Please call or visit our website for more information.
Q: What is Hatha Yoga?
A: Hatha Yoga is not a specific type of yoga, but rather encompasses all of the asana (physical postures), pranayama (breathing), and meditation. Like all Sanskrit words, "Hatha" has many meanings, including "force" or "effort" as well as "sun/moon". Every style we teach is considered “Hatha Yoga.” In our hatha classes, expect an emphasis on simplicity, mindful actions, proper alignment, and a pursuit of effortlessness or "stilling" the mind. Hatha Yoga brings balance, strength, and a sense of well-being to the practitioner.
Q: Do you offer anything else at the center besides yoga classes?
A: Yes. We offer many workshops and series that are designed to advance students’ understanding and knowledge of the physical and non-physical aspects of yoga. We will also host lectures and workshops by various teachers in related fields. Please continue to check our website for upcoming events.
Q: What should I wear to class? Should I bring anything?
A: Yoga is practiced with bare feet, and it is best to wear loose, comfortable clothing. We recommend removing accessories or jewelry that could restrict your movement. We also ask that you refrain from wearing any perfume or oils. You will need a mat, which you can bring from home, rent from our studio, or purchase in our retail store.
Q: How is yoga at Gratitude Yoga different from my gym?
A: Gratitude Yoga is a studio dedicated to the study and practice of hatha yoga. Our teachers are among the finest certified yoga teachers and study regularly with the founders and senior teachers of their style of yoga. Our classes offer more traditional elements of the yoga practice, such as chanting, pranayama, and meditation. Unlike most gyms, our physical space is luxurious, intimate, and designed exclusively for yoga. Gratitude Yoga has two practice rooms, a beautiful reception/retail area that promotes and cultivates our growing community. We offer two bathroom/changing areas.
Q: Do I have to sign-up for an annual membership and initiation fee like I do at the gym?
A: No! We have a very flexible payment system. You can pay class by class (drop-in), purchase “packages” of 5, 10, or 20 classes, or sign up for a monthly-unlimited membership. See our pricing section for more details.
Q: Do you offer any group or corporate discounts?
A: Yes! If you work for a local company, school, or church and think that your colleagues would be interested, give us a call and we can discuss the process. We also offer classes to local business that support and encourage team building.
