New to Yoga

What is Yoga? 

Originated 5,000 years ago in India, yoga is an actual Sanskrit word which means “to unite”. Yoga unites our mind, body and soul, allowing us to have a deeper understanding of ourselves. It offers both physical and mental health benefits as discussed below.

1. Perfects your posture

Poor posture can cause problems for your neck, back, muscles and joints. As you hunch, your body may compensate by flattening the normal curves on your neck and lower back, causing pain and degenerative arthritis of the spine. Yoga corrects your posture by stretching and strengthening your shoulders, back, abdominals and chest, helping you relieve discomfort from poor sitting posture.

2. Increase your heart rate

You may lower the risk of heart attack and relieve depression by getting your heart rate into aerobic range regularly. Studies have found that yoga practice lowers the resting heart rate, increases endurance, and improves your maximum uptake of oxygen during exercise — all reflections of improved aerobic conditioning. One study even found that subjects who were taught only pranayama could do more exercise with less oxygen.

3. Builds muscle strength

Strong muscles do more than just look good. They protect us from conditions like arthritis and back pain, and help prevent falls in elderly. With yoga, you can build strength and flexibility, while simply visiting the gym might help you build strength at the expense of flexibility.

For more information on health benefits of yoga, click here. 

What Do I Wear? 

Choose a top that is body hugging and allow you to move freely in it. A baggy top is hard for our instructors to observe and correct your alignment. Choosing the right material is important too as it should dry off fast and help you stay cool! Likewise, a comfortable and stretchable yoga leggings for the ladies, and shorts or pants for men that allows full range of mobility.

What Do I Bring?

Our studios are well equipped with shower facilities and yoga props such as mats, towels and belts. Here are some additional items which you can bring:

• A face towel should you sweat a lot – Psst, we offer towel for your shower!
• Water bottle to stay hydrated – With water dispensers available at our studios, you may refill your bottle after class!

Tips

• Leave an hour window after your meal when you come for yoga practice
• Arrive at class early to do stretching and prepare any props 
• Relax! Releasing tension is helpful when you try to maintain your balance
• Breathe in, breathe out. Lengthen and deepen your breath can help relax our mind and body