Class Format
Each class consists of muscle/joint activation stretches, yoga breathing (pranayama), postures (asana), and relaxation. Often, a particular posture is highlighted and discussed. I teach alignment, Yoga philosopy, breathing work and other themes appropriate to each Yoga class. As each Session progresses, I introduce more challenging postures and offer longer holding time.
Class Environment
The physical discipline of Yoga is called Hatha Yoga. Within Hatha Yoga, there are different schools, of which Kripalu is one. All schools adhere to the basic elements of Yoga, with a slightly different slant on practice and teaching. Kripalu is the Sanskrit word meaning compassionate and presents a style of yoga which fosters non-judgement, compassion and inner awareness. In the spirit of Kripalu Yoga, classes consist of warm-ups, postures (asanas), breath techniques (pranayama),and relaxation (savasana). Margot encourages an environment where compassion and challenge merge, so that everyone may practice to their edge.
Starting a Yoga Practice
In practice, participants never stretch beyond their own abilities. The benefits of Yoga are achieved by practicing postures, not overextending or straining. Be patient! The benefits of Yoga will happen, and at some point through your practice, you will feel more comfortable, relaxed and stronger.
Flexibility
I am often told, "I'm not flexible, so I can't do yoga". You don't need to be flexible to do Yoga. The idea is to respect your limits while you stretch. This is not a competitive activity. Yoga will increase your flexibility. Every person's body form, daily activity, postural habits, fitness level, degree of innate flexibility of tendons, muscles and ligaments, muscular strength, history of muscle, bone, joint injuries, weight, etc. are unique. Whenever possible, I demonstrate options to give each participant the choice of gentle, moderate or deeper positions. Feel comfortable taking your time as you explore the challenges each posture presents. It matters more that you feel comfortable and challenged within your own practice, rather than comparing yourself to others or competing with yourself. Yoga is non-competitive and non-judgemental.
What do I wear and need for class?
Wear comfortable clothing that gives a little so that you may stretch without restrictions; for example, shorts, stretch pants, T-shirts, jogging pants are all suitable.
You may already have a Yoga mat. If not, I provide 5-6 yoga mats on a first-come basis. There are also yoga mats at the studio, if mine are all in use. I also provide yoga straps. There is nothing else that you need, though, some people do like to bring a blanket for Relaxation.
Mats - Availability and Maintenance
If you would like to purchase your own mat, they are available at The Running Room (Churchill Square), Chapters, Canadian Tire, Wal-Mart and Home Sense. To maintain your mat, clean it on a regular basis with an organic cleaning solution, or a mixture (25/75 or 50/50) of vinegar and water.
Questions? downwarddogyoga@nl.rogers.com
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