Frequently Asked Questions...

May I attend any class?

Yes, you are welcome to attend any class that fits into your schedule, modifying to meet your needs. The only exception to this would be our Foundations of Yoga classes or any specific workshop, which requires pre-registration. These classes are always highlighted to reflect that they are not available for drop in attendance.

What is the best class for “beginner” students?

Each of us is a beginner each time we come to the mat, as our bodies change all the time, however, if you have never practiced Yoga before and are looking for a class that will go a bit slower, please start with one of our 1-hour classes. These classes are available throughout the week. In addition, we offer a Beginners class every Wednesday from 4 - 5pm, as well as a monthly Beginner’s workshop and Foundations of Yoga I.

What do I need to bring to class?

We encourage our students to purchase their own mats (available for less than $20 at most retail stores). You are welcome to use a mat at the studio for your first class. We charge a $1 donation to use a mat after your first class.

What should I wear?

Please dress in comfortable clothing. Non-binding, but not overly loose clothes will be best suited to your practice. The studio is kept warm to help muscles release properly, so please keep this in mind. Yoga is practiced with bare feet, although you may wish to keep your socks on to walk to your mat and for the final relaxation pose.

What if I am running late to class?

In the past, we have kept the door open for regular students who may arrive late. Unfortunately, this can become disruptive to those students who have already begun to practice. Therefore, we need to lock the door promptly at the beginning of each class. Please try to arrive at least 5 minutes before the class is scheduled to begin in order to have time to set up and quiet your body and mind for practice.

May I bring my child/children?

We offer a Kids Yoga class on Fridays from 4 - 4:45pm. This class is specifically for children and a great way to introduce them to yoga. If your child has practiced yoga with you regularly and is able to focus in a studio practice, we would love have them join us. As always, we strive to provide a quiet, peaceful setting for all of our students, so we encourage only those children who have a regular practice to attend other classes.

How does the “series of classes” work?

Most of our students attend classes on a regular basis. Purchasing a series of classes gives you the opportunity to buy your classes in advance, saving the trouble of carrying money to the studio each time. The series also provides a price break and is good for a year. After purchasing the series, you simply sign in at the front desk, check which series you have, and we will contact you when you have one class left. Easy and simple.

Do I need to be “in good shape” to do yoga?

This is one of our most common questions. Practicing yoga is something that anyone can do. We offer classes of varying degrees of difficulty. Our instructors are trained to help each of our students find his/her level of comfort in the classes. We do ask that you let us know if you have any specific physical challenges that need to be addressed, so we can recommend the best class for you. Always feel free to call or email and ask any question. Most importantly, remember that yoga is not competitive. The focus of our practice is to accept ourselves and release judgment.

I am nervous about my first class. What can I expect?

This is a natural feeling whenever trying something new in an unfamiliar setting. We encourage new students to bring a friend, so you feel more at ease, but that is not necessary, as you will see when you attend your very first class. The staff and students at SAY are very welcoming and friendly. The atmosphere is relaxed and joyful. You will have the opportunity to meet new people, or you may come in quietly and stay to yourself, if you prefer. There is no pressure to be social. This is YOUR practice, so we want you to feel at home and relaxed.

You will fill out a new student card at the front desk and sign in for the class. We remove our shoes in the front area to provide a clean space for the practice area. You will place your mat wherever you feel most comfortable and get any props you may need for your practice. We have all you need, so feel free to get anything that will help you feel more at ease.

We have water available at the front of the studio and hot tea for after class. There are two restrooms at the back. Feel free to change from your work clothes at the studio before class. Just give yourself enough time to do so and set up before class begins.

Please turn off your cell phones or leave them in your car. If you have to stay connected (children at home, urgent call expected, etc.), please place your phone on the vibrate setting and place it next to your mat. If it goes off, we ask that you step into the bathroom with the fan on to avoid disrupting the other students while you take the call.

Most students come into the studio, greet friends, and sit quietly for a few moments to release the day. Many students will warm up for class by doing a few poses that they are familiar with, others will just sit or lay quietly on their mats. For new students, this is your opportunity to ask any questions and become comfortable with the space around you.

Most classes begin and end with students sitting comfortably on their mats, usually propped on a blanket or bolster to help the hips release. The instructor will let the class know if students need any specific props for the class.

Your instructor will help you feel more at ease in the studio, so feel free to ask any questions before class. Once class begins, your instructor will guide you through a series of poses. Don’t expect to get it all in during the first class. As with all things, practicing yoga is a process, so just let your body guide you along the way. It is easy to let our egos get the better of us and start comparing with others. Try not to do this, as each and every person, including your instructor, has physical challenges and capabilities that are different. The most important rule is to honor your body throughout your practice and never push to a place of pain. Make modifications to fit your individual needs. Enjoy yourself and remember to breathe.

Classes end with a relaxation pose called savasana. In this pose, students recline on their mats, sometimes using bolsters or neck pillows, eye pillows, and blankets. Be comfortable and relax here. This is your opportunity for the body to absorb all the wonderful things that you just did in your practice.

After relaxing for a bit, a bell or chime will sound to bring you softly back to awareness. Be careful not to jump up here, but to relax and listen to your instructor’s words. For many students, this is one of the best parts of their practice, as the mind and body is more relaxed and calm.

At the end of the class, the instructor will say “Namaste’”. This is an ancient Sanskrit term of endearment and respect. Students often reply back to acknowledge the instructor’s gift of the class. You are not obligated to do so.

After class, some students will remain quietly at their mat, others will begin to get up and put away props. Let yourself be comfortable here and do not feel rushed. You are welcome to make a cup of hot tea or cocoa to take home with you or enjoy at the studio if another class is not scheduled. Again, feel free to talk with your instructor and ask any questions.