F.A.Q.'s AND COMMON ISSUES
1. I don't typically exercise, but I'm interested. Are these videos suitable for me?
Most likely, yes! However, it is important to consult with your doctor and obtain clearance before starting any new exercise regimen. Please read the pages provided in the Resources section and begin with the Beginners section. If you wish to make significant progress, I recommend completing the Beginners course as outlined in the offered program before advancing to practices at a higher level. To access the Beginners series, go to Yoga > Collections > Beginners Series.
2. Will these videos help me build strength?
Absolutely. Unlike other mainstream practices that focus solely on flexibility or strength, the offered Practices here emphasize the harmonious and correct integration of both elements. You can rest assured that you're in safe hands.
3. I'm a complete beginner. Is this website suitable for me to start practicing yoga?
Absolutely! The website offers a comprehensive course specifically designed for absolute Beginners. It is structured in a way that facilitates gradual progression and development. Whether you're new to yoga or have some experience, you're in the right place!
To get started, go to Yoga > Collections > Beginners Series. This series will provide you with a solid foundation and build your confidence in practicing Yoga.
One of the advantages of using videos is that you can easily go back and review any missed information or repeat practices until you feel comfortable and have mastered the necessary elements. It's a flexible and accessible way to learn and grow as a practitioner.
Whether you're using these videos to gain confidence before attending in-person classes or if you plan to practice solely online, the website will support your journey and help you become a solid practitioner.
4. I have some heath issues. Is it OK to try?
It's rather common to have health issues, and it shouldn't deter you from trying Yoga. However, it's important to prioritize your safety and well-being. Before starting any new exercise program, including yoga, you must consult with your doctor and obtain clearance.
If your doctor gives you the green light, you can definitely give it a try. However, it's crucial to listen to your body and modify or skip any poses or practices that may not be suitable for your specific condition. If you come across something in a video that your doctor has advised you to avoid, it's important to respect that advice and skip that particular pose or practice.
By approaching Yoga with awareness, caution, and the guidance of your healthcare provider, you can adapt the practice to meet your specific needs and enjoy its benefits while keeping your health in mind.
5. Are these practices helpful in tackling short-term and chronic stress?
Yes, yes and yes again. Yoga, Relaxation and Meditation are the best antidotes to the stress that plagues modern living.
They are highly effective tools for managing and reducing both short-term and chronic stress. The combination of physical movement, conscious breathing, and mental focus in Yoga helps to release tension from the body, calm the nervous system, and promote a sense of overall well-being.
Practicing Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery, can help you relax and unwind, relieving stress and promoting a state of relaxation and tranquility.
Meditation, on the other hand, trains the mind to be present and cultivates a sense of inner calm and clarity. Regular meditation practice has been shown to reduce stress, improve emotional well-being, and enhance overall resilience to stressors.
By incorporating these practices into your routine, you can develop effective coping strategies for managing both short-term stressors and the long-term impact of chronic stress.
6. I'm very stiff, so Yoga is not for me. Right?
Not at all! The belief that Yoga is only for flexible people is a common misconception. In fact, Yoga is an excellent practice for improving flexibility, regardless of your level of stiffness.
Yoga is designed to gradually and safely increase your range of motion through a combination of stretching, strengthening, and mindful movement. With consistent practice, you can experience significant improvements in your flexibility over time.
It's important to remember that Yoga is a non-competitive practice, and it's not about comparing yourself to others. Each person's body is unique, and everyone has their own starting point. The focus should be on listening to your body, respecting its limits, and working within your comfortable range of motion.
By practicing regularly and with patience, you can gradually increase your flexibility, improve your posture, release tension in the body, and enhance your overall physical well-being. So, don't let stiffness discourage you from trying Yoga. Embrace the journey and enjoy the process of discovering new possibilities in your body.
7. Can these practices help me sleep better?
Absolutely! Yoga and relaxation practices can be highly beneficial for improving sleep quality and promoting better sleep patterns.
Regular practice of Yoga helps reduce stress and anxiety, which are common factors that can disrupt sleep. The combination of physical movement, deep breathing, and mindfulness in Yoga helps calm the nervous system, release tension from the body, and quiet the mind. This can create a more relaxed state conducive to falling asleep and experiencing deeper, more restful sleep.
Check the Calming Practices Collection for help in this department.
Additionally, incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, Meditation, and guided imagery before bedtime can further enhance the relaxation response and promote better sleep.
It's important to establish a regular bedtime routine that includes these Yoga and Relaxation practices.
Consistency is key, as the body responds well to a consistent sleep schedule. Gradually, you may notice improvements in your ability to fall asleep faster, stay asleep throughout the night, and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Remember to create a conducive sleep environment by keeping your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool, and to avoid stimulating activities and electronic devices close to bedtime.
By incorporating these practices into your routine, you can create a peaceful transition into sleep and experience the benefits of improved sleep quality and overall well-being.
8. I've heard that Meditation is good for stress and mental health but I don't think I can meditate. Should I even try?
Absolutely! Meditation is a practice that can be beneficial for everyone, regardless of experience or perceived ability. While it may seem challenging at first, it's important to remember that Meditation is a 'muscle' that develops over time with consistent practice.
Like anything new, it takes time and patience to become comfortable with Meditation. It's normal to have thoughts and distractions arise, but the key is to observe them without judgment and gently bring your attention back to your chosen point of focus, such as the breath or a mantra. It's not about achieving a completely clear mind, but rather cultivating a state of present-moment awareness.
Start with shorter sessions, even just a few minutes a day, and gradually increase the duration as you feel more comfortable. There are also various Meditation techniques available, so you can explore different approaches and find what resonates with you. Guided Meditations can be particularly helpful for Beginners, as they provide instructions and support throughout the practice.
The benefits of Meditation are numerous and well-documented. Regular practice can help reduce stress, promote relaxation, improve focus and concentration, enhance self-awareness, and cultivate a sense of inner calm and well-being. It can also help develop resilience to daily challenges and improve overall mental health.
So, even if you feel unsure or skeptical about your ability to meditate, I encourage you to give it a try. Approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow. With time and practice, you may discover the transformative effects that Meditation can have on your life and well-being.
9. I have no specific issues, but I want to use these practices to help me stay healthy and balanced. With so many videos, how should I choose practices for my routine?
If you're not a Beginner, the Schedule can be a helpful resource. It provides suggestions for practices to help you maintain a varied and balanced routine. The schedule takes into account different aspects of your practice, such as strength, flexibility, Relaxation, and Meditation, and offers a curated selection of videos to support your overall well-being. You can follow the suggested practices on the schedule or customize it based on your preferences and needs.
If you're a Beginner, I recommend starting with the dedicated program offered on the website. The Beginners series, found under Yoga> Collections> Beginners series, is designed to guide you through a progressive and structured introduction to Yoga. It will help you build a solid foundation and understanding of the fundamental Yoga poses and principles.
Remember, Yoga is a personal journey, and it's important to find a balance between challenging yourself and honoring your limitations. Allow yourself the freedom to explore and discover what works best for you. Trust your intuition and choose practices that resonate with you and support your overall health and well-being.
10. How can I maximise the benefits of the practices and make them last longer?
The key to maximizing the benefits of your Yoga practice and making them last longer is to be regular and consistent in your practice. Here are a few tips to help you:
Establish a routine: Set a regular schedule for your practice. Whether it's daily, a few times a week, or on specific days, consistency is key. Make it a non-negotiable part of your routine, just like brushing your teeth or eating meals.
Prioritize quality over quantity: even if you only have 10-15 minutes, make the most of that time by being fully engaged and present in your practice.
Tune into your body and breath: pay attention to the sensations in your body and the quality of your breath during your practice. Cultivate a sense of mindfulness and listen to your body's signals. Modify poses or take breaks as needed to ensure you're practicing safely and comfortably.
Gradually progress: challenge yourself in your practice, but also respect your body's limits. Gradually progress by exploring variations or deeper expressions of poses as you feel ready. Avoid pushing yourself too hard or forcing your body into positions that feel uncomfortable or painful.
Bring mindfulness off the mat: the benefits of your Yoga practice can extend beyond the physical practice itself. Bring mindfulness and awareness into your daily life. Apply the principles of Yoga, such as mindfulness, compassion, and self-care, to your interactions, decisions, and activities outside of your Yoga sessions.
Remember, Yoga is a lifelong journey, and the benefits accumulate over time. By staying consistent, present, and mindful in your practice, you can enhance the benefits and make them a lasting part of your overall well-being.
11. I have low energy levels today / I feel mentally fragile / I feel unmotivated. Should I do a calming practice or meditate to feel better?
Contrary to what you might expect, when you're experiencing low energy levels, feeling mentally fragile, or lacking motivation, it can be beneficial to engage in a practice that sets your energy into motion rather than opting for a calming practice or meditation.
A calming practice or meditation may further decrease your energy levels and reinforce a sense of lethargy. Instead, consider incorporating practices that are more energizing and invigorating. These practices can help stimulate your body and mind, uplift your mood, and increase your overall energy levels.
Check the Energising Practices section.
12. I have so much energy today, I feel I can take on the world! I should do a high-intensity practice, right?
Surprisingly, even though you may feel energized and ready to conquer the world, it's not necessarily recommended to dive into a high-intensity practice in this situation. Instead, opting for a relaxation practice or a more calming Yoga session can be beneficial.
When you have an abundance of energy, it's important to channel and balance it effectively to avoid overexertion or potential burnout. Engaging in a high-intensity practice may further stimulate your energy and potentially leave you feeling drained or overstimulated afterward.
By choosing a Relaxation or Meditation practice, you can harness and channel your energy in a more focused and sustainable way. These practices provide an opportunity to nurture and restore your body and mind, promoting a sense of calm and balance.
By opting for a Relaxation practice, you can still harness your energy but in a more balanced and sustainable way. It allows you to recharge and restore yourself, enabling you to maintain your energy levels for longer periods.
13. I'm ill but I don't want to just do anything and be miserable. What kind of practice can I do?
When you're feeling unwell, it's important to prioritize your health and allow your body to heal. While it's generally recommended to rest and take care of yourself during illness, there are still some gentle practices you can consider. However, it's crucial to listen to your body and modify or skip any practice that feels strenuous or exacerbates your symptoms.
You should check the Calming Practices Collection and the Relaxation / Meditation section.
14. I'm recovering from an injury or condition and my doctor said it's OK to exercise and even try Yoga. Is it OK to do the practices on this website?
If your doctor has given you clearance to exercise and try yoga, it can be a beneficial part of your recovery process. However, it's important to exercise caution and follow any specific instructions or limitations provided by your doctor. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind.
Make sure to read the descriptions and follow practices suitable for your level of recovery and any specific modifications mentioned.
Depending on your injury or condition, certain poses or movements may need to be modified or avoided altogether. Be patient, listen to your body and honor its limitations. Be mindful of any pain or discomfort and make necessary adjustments or seek alternatives as needed.
Start with gentle practices and gradually increase intensity or duration as your body becomes stronger and more resilient. It's important to respect your body's healing process and not push beyond your limits, especially during the recovery phase.
Remember, the goal during recovery is to support your healing process and avoid further injury or setbacks. If at any point you experience pain or discomfort, it's important to stop and reassess your approach. Your overall well-being and long-term recovery should be the primary focus.
15. What kind of Yoga style is offered in these videos?
In a nutshell, this isn't 'a style' as, unfortunately, styles tend to have some kind of limitation.
The practices offered in these videos draw from a synthesis of knowledge, experience, and experimentation to provide a well-rounded approach to Yoga. The focus is on integrating physical, mental, and spiritual elements for optimal results.
Rather than being limited by a specific style, the practices aim to incorporate various aspects of Yoga to cater to the needs of practitioners. This approach allows for flexibility and adaptation, ensuring that the practices are accessible and beneficial to a wide range of individuals.
The emphasis is on providing a holistic experience that addresses not only physical fitness but also mental well-being and spiritual growth. The practices may incorporate elements of flexibility, strength, Relaxation, Meditation, and more, all aimed at promoting balance and overall health.
By drawing from a variety of Yoga principles and techniques, the practices aim to offer a comprehensive and well-rounded approach, providing practitioners with the opportunity to explore and benefit from different aspects of the practice.
16. Why do Yoga and Meditation are often mentioned together? Do I really have to practice both to enjoy real benefit?
Yoga and Meditation are often mentioned together because they are interconnected practices that complement each other in the pursuit of overall well-being. While they can be seen as separate practices, they are inherently intertwined and mutually supportive.
Yoga encompasses a wide range of physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and Meditation practices. It is a holistic discipline that aims to integrate the body, mind, and spirit. Through the practice of yoga, individuals develop physical strength, flexibility, and balance, as well as cultivate mental clarity, focus, and emotional well-being.
Meditation is a practice that involves focusing the mind and cultivating a state of deep awareness, mindfulness, and inner stillness. It is a technique used to quiet the mind, reduce stress, and enhance self-awareness. Meditation can be practiced as a standalone practice or as an integral part of a Yoga session.
While it is not necessary to practice both Yoga and Meditation to enjoy real benefits, they complement each other in essential ways. The physical postures and breathing techniques in Yoga help prepare the body and mind for Meditation by releasing tension, improving circulation, and calming the nervous system. On the other hand, meditation enhances the mental focus, concentration, and inner awareness developed through Yoga.
By practicing Yoga and Meditation together, individuals can experience a deeper integration of body, mind, and spirit. The combined practice can lead to enhanced physical health, increased mental clarity, emotional stability, and a greater sense of inner peace and well-being.
However, it's important to note that every individual's journey is unique, and some may find greater affinity and benefit from one practice over the other. Ultimately, the choice to practice Yoga, Meditation, or both depends on personal preference and the specific goals and needs of the individual.
17. Is practising Yoga the same as exercising?
Although it does involve physical movement and can provide similar benefits to exercise, Yoga is a holistic practice that encompasses physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), meditation, and philosophical principles.
While exercise primarily focuses on physical fitness and strength, yoga goes beyond that by incorporating elements of mindfulness, breath awareness, and spiritual aspects. It aims to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit, promoting overall well-being and inner balance.
Yoga postures and sequences involve a combination of elements that help improve flexibility, build strength, enhance balance, and promote overall physical health. However, the physical aspect of yoga is just one component of the practice.
Yoga also emphasizes breath control and awareness, which is not typically emphasized in traditional exercise routines.
The conscious breathing techniques and breath synchronization with movement used in Yoga help calm the mind, reduce stress, and cultivate a sense of relaxation and inner peace.
Furthermore, Yoga incorporates mindfulness and meditation practices, which can have a profound impact on mental and emotional well-being. These practices cultivate self-awareness, focus, and clarity of mind, promoting a sense of inner calm and improved mental resilience.
18. Should I still do a practice if it feels too easy for me?
Yes, even if a practice feels too easy for you, it can still be beneficial to engage in it. While challenging yourself is important for growth and progress, it is also valuable to be 'in a lower gear'.
Yoga is a practice that can be adapted to different levels of ability and experience. It is not always about pushing yourself to the limits or striving for difficulty. A gentle and easy practice can be just what your body and mind need. It can provide an opportunity for relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-care.
Engaging in an easy practice can help you cultivate mindfulness, deepen your breath awareness, and enhance your mind-body connection. It can be a time for you to focus on alignment, refine your technique, and explore subtle sensations within the postures.
Additionally, an easy practice can serve as a foundation for building strength, flexibility, and stability. It allows you to establish a strong and stable base before progressing to more challenging practices.
Consistency in practicing even the easier postures can create a solid groundwork for future growth.
Remember, Yoga is not about physical exertion or achieving complex poses. It is about creating balance, cultivating self-awareness, and nourishing your overall well-being. So, embrace the opportunity to engage in an easier practice and enjoy the benefits it offers in terms of relaxation, mindfulness, and foundation building.
19. What is Yoga, really?
It is a practical philosophical system where theory must be coupled with practice if one is seeking true advancement within the system.
20. Are these videos suitable for prenatal or postnatal circumstances?
No. During those very special times you should be doing a specific practice under direct supervision. You may well be fit and feel capable, however, there are important guidelines that should be followed strictly during those times.