The word "yoga" translates, essentially, to union. Yoga is all about harmonizing the body and mind through breathing exercises, yoga postures, mindfulness, and meditation. Adopting a regular yoga practice can help to increase strength, flexibilitiy, and overall wellbeing.

Of course! You are there perfect candidate to practice yoga. Many people think they need to be flexible to begin their yoga practice, but it's simply not true. Come as you are, and you will find that practicing yoga regularly will increase your flexiblity with time. All classes offer modifications and props for different levels of flexibility, enabling all practitioners to experience the full benefits of each pose.

Comfortable yet form-fitting clothing that is easy to move in is best for practicing yoga. Please bring water, your mat, a towel, and an open mind. Cow Face Yoga offers a free Manduka mat rental on your first visit to the studio. Mat rentals are available after your first visit for $2. Props are provided for all students, including cork blocks, straps, bolsters, eye pillows & blankets.

The format of a class depends on the teacher as well as the style of yoga. Most classes start with several minutes of pranayama (breath work) to encourage both relaxation and internal focus. The core of most classes include a variety of physical yoga poses; seated, standing, balance, and reclined. All instructions offer options to modify poses as needed. Classes end with Savasana, a few minutes to rest & restore or practice meditation. In every class you can expect deep breathing, poses for stretching, strengthing, and balancing your body - and relaxation, always. Instructors often provide adjustments to help support you throughout your practice and encourage proper alignment.

Establishing a new yoga practice can be challenging, and sometimes a bit intimidating. This is especially true when the class offers words in a different language. Sanskrit is an ancient languge, originating in India, and is generally weaved throughout most yoga classes, at the instructors discretion. While the translations of Sanskrit words vary, below is an outline of commonly used words: Asana: Yoga posture or pose Drishti: Directed focus or gaze Mantra: Repetition of words or syllables Namaste: A respectful greeting or farewell Om: Various meanings; a calming vibrational sound Pranayama: Controlled breath, energy, life force Savasana: Resting pose at the end of class, a time for meditation Vinyasa: Arranging something in a particular way (example: a series of poses)