Yoga Etiquette
- Arrive at least 5 minutes early so you can settle in before class begins.
- If you arrive after class has started and the door is closed, please wait in the hall until “OM” is chanted or you hear the teacher begin leading movement.
- Save social conversation for before and after class, only in the hall or cloak room so people in the main room can settle into their own space and rhythm.
- Remove your outside footwear at the studio door. Feel free to carry it into the cloak room.
- Leave all personal belongings, including mat bags and keys, in the cloak room.
- Ensure cell phones/pagers are turned off.
- Refrain from wearing scented products to class.
- Refrain from chewing gum during class.
- Put props back neatly, as you found them.
Missed Classes
Missed classes may be made up by attending any other class offered at Yoga Downtown at an appropriate level, within the same 13-week series (until December 21 2009), as long as space is available.
Cancellations/Refunds
No fees will be refunded after the first class of the series. If you must withdraw prior to the first class of the series, fees will be refunded minus a $16 administration fee. If you must withdraw after the first class of the series due to serious medical or family reasons, you will receive credit for any remaining classes, valid for 6 calendar months from the date that you notify Aileen Hayden. This credit is transferable; you may give it to someone else.
Clothing
Wear non-restrictive, comfortable clothing that allows your teacher to see your major joints (a T-shirt and sweat pants or shorts work fine). Bare feet will give you the grip you need for standing poses; you might like to wear socks or a second layer for warm-ups at the beginning of class and relaxation at the end. A change room is available.
What to Bring
Bring a yoga mat or a blanket that lies flat. Yoga mats are available at the studio for $28.56 and up. We also sell mat bags and harnesses, blocks and eye bags.
Meals
You’ll be most comfortable practising yoga on an empty stomach. Refrain from eating a full meal for at least 2 hours before class.
How Many Classes per Week?
Yoga works best as regular nourishment rather than occasional dessert. Something happens when we practice yoga regularly. It’s been described as a feeling of coming home.
Once stretched, muscle tissue holds its new length for about 48 hours. Steady improvement in flexibility comes when you stretch every couple of days. Strength builds in a similar way.
To build a steady practice, go for consistency and choose a schedule you can stick to. You might like to start with one class a week and set aside time (start with 10 minutes/day) for some home practice in between. You’ll know when your body and schedule are ready for more than one class a week and for more home practice.
Ages
Adults of any age, and teenagers 14 and over who can function independently in an adult class.
I’m Not Very Flexible
Yoga is all about starting where you are! You do NOT have to be human pretzel to practice yoga. All of the movements and postures can be adapted to suit any age, any fitness level, any level of flexibility. Begin with a Starting Yoga class or a Gentle Yoga class, and alert your teacher to any health concerns.
Pregnancy
Choose a pre-natal yoga class to deepen into your experience of pregnancy, preparing body, mind and heart for childbirth. Pre-Natal Yoga classes are for students of all levels. Our Gentle Yoga and some Starting Yoga classes can also be adapted for pregnant women, at the teacher’s discretion.
Injuries/Health Concerns
Speak to your teacher prior to your first class about any injuries, chronic pain or health conditions. We will ask you to fill out a detailed health information form and may suggest you see your health care provider before enrolling. Yoga can be marvelous for easing pain and speeding rehabilitation for some conditions, and it is contraindicated for others.
Other Questions or Concerns
Please contact us at 374-4704 or info@yogadowntown if you have any other questions or concerns.
I hope you can join us!
Jai Bhagwan!
(The light of consciousness within me honours the light of consciousness within you!)
Aileen
Aileen Hayden
Director
Yoga Downtown
#3 – 505 23rd St E (classes)
#3 – 126 5th Ave N (mail)
306.374.4704
info@yogadowntown.ca
www.yogadowntown.ca
