Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Hatha Yoga?
Hatha Yoga is generally classified as "forceful Yoga." There are many different styles of Hatha Yoga. Despite being called "forceful," a Hatha Yoga practice can be as gentle or as vigorous as you would like it to be. Hatha Yoga teachings tend to focus on Asana (posture) and Pranayama (breath work). In a good Hatha Yoga class you will be instructed not only in how to get into, hold, and exit the postures, but also in how to breathe effectively.
What are the benefits of Yoga?
Please click to find out more. Benefits of Yoga, Weight Management, and Stress Reduction
Do I need to be flexible to do Yoga?
No. Among many of its benefits, Yoga can help increase flexibility. The important thing to remember is that there is correct position in each posture for everyone. Your intructor will help guide you through the process in finding "your posture." Regardless of your current level of flexiblity, you will be able to experience 100% of the benefits each posture can offer with proper guidance and modification.
What do I need to bring to class?
Please bring water, a towel, and your own Yoga mat (if you have one). Sunny Yoga has rental mats for $2 and mats for sale for $12.
What should I wear?
You should dress in comfortable clothes. Because you will be moving throughout class, your clothing should not be too loose or it will inhibit movement. Common dress for women includes: Leggings, fitted shorts, or capris, sports bras, workout tops, fitted Ts, and tank tops. Common dress for men includes: Athletic shorts. If a shirt is worn it is usually a t-shirt (not too baggy) or a sleeveless shirt or tank.
Shoes and socks are not worn during class. You will have much better grip on your mat and better sensation without them. If you have any concerns though, please ask.
When should I arrive at class?
If you are a new student please arrive at least 10 minutes before your first class to complete the Client Information Form and to meet your teacher. If you are a returning student, please arrive a few minutes early so that you are ready to go when class begins.
What is good Yoga ettiquite?
Please turn off or silence cell phones before class.
If you are taking a PUBLIC class, please save conversation for before or after class and hold it outside of the Yoga room so as not to disturb your classmates that are trying to relax.
Save gum chewing for before or after class. It tenses your jaw during class and can be distracting to your practice.
Arrive early.
Stay long enough to enjoy your Savasana. (final relaxing pose)
Please inform your instructor if you need to leave early.
If you are taking a public class please enter and leave quietly.
Communicate with your instructor any joys, concerns, or questions.
Smile.
Have fun!
Do I need to follow a special diet to do Yoga?
No. However, if you are concerned about your current eating habits, please consult your doctor or nutritionist for further information on healthy eating habits suitable for you.
Should I eat and drink before class?
It is good practice to refrain from eating about 2 hours before class. If your body has not yet had a chance to digest your food, less blood and oxygen can be used in other areas of your body during the postures, as the majority of it is busy digesting your meal. This is like asking a child to stay completley focused and complete their homework correctly while the television and radio are on.
Please drink plenty of water throughout the day whether or not you are practicing Yoga. Coming to class hydrated and staying hydrated after you leave can only enhance your experience. Please stay away from "sports drinks" during class. Water is very suitable and simple!
Can I integrate other forms of exercise with Yoga?
A Yoga practice is unique from any other form of movement/exercise as that it works/benefits 100% of your body (glands, muscles, connective tissue, joints, organs, etc.) every time you practice and is perfectly suitable to be practiced on its own. However, some do enjoy other forms of exercise as well. You are encouraged to do what you love, so incorporating Yoga into an already active lifestyle is fine. It is important to rememebr not to "over-do" your workout though. Please practice all of your activity with care and approval from your health care provider, and be conscious of what your body is telling you.
What is Sunny Yoga?
Currently Sunny Yoga is a small, independent, and locally owned business that provides quality Yoga instruction throughout the valley. At this time, Sunny Yoga is offering private sessions at an eye-catching and friendly in-home studio that can accomodate a group of 3 or less. Larger classes are held at Dance Dynamix, on Warner Road, in Tempe. Other locations can also be arranged as well upon request.
By not having a large studio to manage and operate I can host small, large, or private classes more frequently and at your convenience. All customized classes are designed to fit your needs. Having this type of flexibility helps me to best serve my clients/students at this time.
How do I get to Sunny Yoga?
How do I get to a Sunny Yoga class at Dance Dynamix or another location?