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Entering the space at "Simple Abundance Yoga" is like opening a door and walking into a different world from the world most of us know in our hectic, stressful lives. The love and peace is evident from the beginning. The practice of Yoga in this place transcends just physical movement and becomes instead a meditative, joyful experience. From the music to Wendy's clear direction and soothing voice about pose to the offer of acceptance of self, one can really just "be". It has been for me the ultimate "coming together".
~ Jane Floyd,
   Shady Valley, Tennessee




Below is a list of questions that we are frequently asked by students...

Can anyone do yoga?

Yes. The essence of yoga is finding a place of comfort in each and every moment. This may mean making modifications to fit your specific needs, but that is essential to the practice for every person. Each time you come to the mat is a different experience. Listen to your body and find your place of comfort and ease.

Will yoga help me lose weight?

This is a common question. If your intention is to lose weight, then yoga will certainly help you in that effort. A consistent yoga practice provides strength training, core building, and muscle toning. As with any physical exercise, the success is dependent upon the commitment to an overall healthy lifestyle. Practicing yoga can be very helpful with overall self-esteem and mindfulness of what you are eating and how you are caring for yourself and others.

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). We provide blankets which can be used to sit upon, cover with, place under knees or wrists, or between knees in twists. We provide bolsters for support in certain poses and eye pillows used for covering the eyes during the final relaxation pose. (We launder eye pillow covers after each use.) You are always welcome to bring a pillow or blanket from home to be more comfortable. We will be happy to work with you to help your practice be as comfortable as possible.

What should I wear?

Please dress in comfortable clothing. Non-binding, but not overly loose clothes will be best suited to your practice. For restorative or gentle flow classes, you may leave your socks on if your feet tend to get cold. Otherwise, you will want to practice with bare feet to stay securely on your mat during standing poses.

Will you be able to help me modify my practice?

Yes. Both Wendy and Lamont have completed a certification program, which included ways to help students with special physical challenges. In addition, we have both found the benefits of yoga in dealing with our own physical challenges (MS, TMJ, headaches, lower back pain, fatigue, and menopause), which helps us be especially aware of which asanas (poses) are most beneficial for specific needs.

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 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 sign in at the front desk when you enter the room and pay for the class. Please be sure to speak with Wendy or Lamont, so we are aware that this is your first class and can answer any questions you may have. You will place your mat wherever you feel most comfortable.

It is always best to practice on an empty bladder, so try to arrive a bit early so you may visit the restroom before class begins. This will help you keep your focus on your practice and not on the need to use the restroom during class. If, however, at any time, you feel the urge to go, please feel free to go quietly and return quietly. Don’t ever feel you need to wait until class is over to go or to return back to class.

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 to class, 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 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, your instructor will gently bring you 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, please feel free to speak with your instructor and share your feedback regarding the class. Often, questions will come up during a practice. You may wish to discuss these now or write an email to the instructor once you are home. Always feel free to ask any questions. We will reply as promptly as possible


 
      
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