Ottawa Yoga & Tea Studio | FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

What is yoga?

Yoga is an ancient technology that has been practiced for thousands of years.  It involves physical poses (asanas), breathwork (pranayama), meditation and mantra which provides a complete workout for the body, mind and spirit.The word Yoga itself means "union" - of your mind, body and spirit, and this inner harmony is established when yoga postures are performed with awareness of the breath. Doing yoga makes you more aware of your mind and body, your stressors and allows for introspection so that you can examine, challenge and change life habits and patterns. Just as your life is always evolving and changing, so does your practice...yoga will provide you with whatever it is that you're looking for.  For some it's improved flexibility, better sleep, stress reduction, spiritual enlightenment, exercise, or just an enjoyable activity! Whatever it is that has piqued your curiosity about yoga, that need will be met and more!

 

Can I do yoga? Is it safe for me?

What’s wonderful about practicing yoga is that you start from where you are at this moment.  You don't have to be young, fit or supple or you could already be quite active! The principle is that you practice the poses at your own level of challenge and listen to your body.  It is most important that you find the appropriate class for you.  Yoga is non-competitive and each person is coming to yoga for their own health and well-being.  We teach babies all the way up to 80 year olds and they each enjoy the experience.  If you have any specific health concerns, it is advised to first check with your health care professional to ensure that it is safe for you to practice yoga or any other programs that we offer and that your condition isn’t further aggravated.  See the list of styles and classes we offer in order to find the appropriate class for you.  Please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss any special needs or concerns.

 

Why should I do yoga?

Everyone has a different experience but bottom line...yoga makes you feel great!  Yoga benefits you physically and mentally so that you can live your life to your full potential.  As the saying goes "Health is Wealth" and doing yoga can bring you both.  Here are some of the health benefits you can expect to enjoy from doing yoga regularly:

  • Stress reduction

  • Improved flexibility, strength, posture and self-confidence

  • Longer, leaner, toned muscles and fat reduction

  • Proper breathing to improve energy levels and calm the nervous system

  • Mental calmness and clarity

  • Ability to relax and release tension

  • Better sleep

  • Improved immune system and detoxification

  • Weight stabilization

  • Improved circulation

  • Reduced mood swings

  • Increased self-awareness and self-control

  • Mastery of your mind!

 

Basically, yoga helps what ails you and is preventative health care! Sounds too good to be true? You have to experience it for yourself.  Yoga is also an excellent complement to your existing exercise activity such as running, skiing, and golfing, as it improves recovery and prevents injury.

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Can anyone do yoga? I’m not very flexible…

Anyone can start a yoga class, you are not required to be in perfect physical shape or take on a shape of a pretzel! By practicing yoga at least once a week, you will notice flexibility and strength develop quickly.  Yoga is non-competitive, which can be quite liberating, so just let go of the ego and be content with how you are at the moment...everyone goes at their own pace and does their best.  You have to start somewhere, otherwise you go nowhere!

 

If I have an injury can I still do yoga?

We recommend consulting with your doctor first to ensure that you can safely practice yoga without further aggravating your injury.  After obtaining permission from your doctor, practice with awareness and use your own judgment to ensure that your practice is challenging but not painful.  At Yoga & Tea Studio we offer many classes that are suitable for those with injuries or health conditions but still looking to benefit from some therapeutic exercise.  These classes are Gentle, Restorative and Chair Yoga.  Check our How do I start? page to find the yoga style that’s right for you.

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I'd like to try a class, when can I start?

How about right now! There’s no time like the present.  If we’re already into our season schedule, you’re still welcome to join midway or drop-in for a class.  So you can start your yoga practice at any time.  Check out our How do I start? page to find the yoga style that’s right for you.

 

What should I wear and bring to yoga class?

 

  • Clothing - We suggest that you wear comfortable clothing that you can move and breathe in, and to dress in layers. Yoga is done barefoot so expect to remove those socks! 

  • Yoga Mat - A sticky yoga mat is required for class, if you don’t own one, buy one at our studio, or rent one from us for a minimal $2 fee.

  • Blanket - You will need one to cover up when lying down in order to retain body heat and allow for a deeper relaxation.

  • Water - Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated before, during and after class!

  • Mug - You’re encouraged to bring your own mug to class to participate in tea after class.

  • Positive attitude & a smile! - ☺ Optional, but guaranteed you will leave class wearing one!

 

What are the different styles of yoga and other programs offered at Yoga & Tea Studio and what’s right for me?

At Yoga & Tea Studio, we provide classes that are accessible for all ages, fitness levels and life stages.  It is important to find a class which suits your needs and meets you where you’re at today at your current fitness level and takes you where you need to go.  Many times people end up in the wrong class and get discouraged and come away thinking that all yoga is what they just took.  However, just like there are many styles of dance, there are also many styles of yoga each with something different to offer and point of focus.  So you may have to try different styles and find one or more that suits you.

If you're a beginner at yoga, the many different styles can seem overwhelming. How do you choose? How do you know which type is right for you?

We suggest that you read the How do I start? page and find your yoga style or give us a call and we’ll help you out!

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How do I take classes and how often?

On our schedule we have regular weekly classes (Flexible Classes) and classes that run by session for x number of weeks (Specialty Classes).  It’s recommended at a minimum that you practice once a week to sustain and build on the benefits of your practice, and try to attend 2-3x a week for significant results.  You can take classes using the following pass options:

  • Drop-in (“Pay as you go” fee)

    • Attend any class on our schedule and just pay for the one class.

  • Flexible Class Pass

    • Buy one of our class passes (5, 10, 20) and use them within the defined period towards any of our regular weekly classes.

  • Monthly Unlimited Pass

    • With this pass you have unlimited access to all of our regular weekly classes.

  • Monthly Unlimited Membership

    • A cost-effective monthly plan to have unlimited access to all of our regular weekly classes.

  • Specialty Class Pass or Session Registration

    • Sign up for the session or get a Specialty Class Pass to attend a Specialty class such as Prenatal yoga, Baby & Me yoga, etc.

 

See our list of fees here.

Once you’ve bought your pass, we recommend that you book your class time slot in order to reserve your spot in the class.  See our schedule page.

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