Basics of yoga in Questions and Answers

The Essence of Hatha Yoga - Sun Salutation

Interested in yoga? Here are some tips for beginners from Janet Strawn, a certified yoga instructor and personal trainer for nearly 25 years and co-owner of Club Champions of Centerville.

Q. What’s the best way to learn about yoga?

A. Verbal cues are critical to experiencing each posture to your full potential. That is why it is best to attend several yoga classes and learn it from a certified teacher. The second best way to gain exposure to yoga is to check out a video at the local library or purchase one. Most of the master yoga teachers have released videos for all levels of students. To start, look for classes and videos that provide guidelines and instructions for beginners. Don’t be concerned initially with what type of yoga the teacher practices. If you are new to yoga, you will learn how to select a video or class that is right for you as you learn more about the various aspects of yoga.

Q. How do I find a class?

A. Ask around. Yoga has become so popular that it will be easy to find someone who attends class regularly.

Yoga teachers often don’t do a good job at marketing their classes, but many do list themselves in the local telephone directory or promote themselves online on their Web sites. If someone needs additional help in finding a class, they can send me an e-mail (JLStrawn@aol.com.) or contact the Dayton Yoga Center in Centerville. It is owned by one of my teachers, Dr. Nan Kienow, master yoga teacher and founder of the Dayton Yoga Teachers Association. You can also look for yoga classes at your fitness center or local YMCA.

Q. What equipment do I need?

A. All you need is a towel, blanket or mat on which to do your yoga exercises. Yoga mats (often called sticky mats) can be purchased almost anywhere now for $15-$20. You can also purchase yoga mats and props online. My sources include: www.huggermugger.com, www.yogaprops.net and www.yogazone.com. I use blankets, cushions and yoga props.

Q. What about clothing?

A. There is no need to buy special yoga clothing. Just wear stretchy clothing that allows for freedom of movement. In my classes, people wear what is most comfortable for them. Some people wear leotards and others wear a baggy pair of sweat pants and a big T- shirt. The guys like to wear fitness shorts and tank tops. And, did I mention that you leave your shoes and socks at the door?

Q. What type of room or environment should I look for?

A. You want to practice yoga in a quiet, clean environment free of distractions and unnecessary noise. If you practice in your own home with a video or DVD, you will need to find a room in your home where you won’t be interrupted. Soothing music helps create an environment for relaxation and self-discovery. If you are lucky enough to practice in a traditional yoga studio, you may also be able to enjoy candles and incense to further support the relaxing nature.

Q. How often do I practice?

A. To get the most out of yoga, it is best to practice on a daily basis for 30-60 minutes. If you have less time, then practice as regularly as you can. It helps tp attend one or more classes per week to keep you fresh, flexible and disciplined. If you take a few moments each day to get quiet and focus on your breath, you are practicing yoga.

Q. What benefits will I get?

A. First and foremost, yoga promotes optimal health. It helps to balance our bodies and create conditions for wellness and freedom from disease. Yoga helps us to better manage the stress in our lives and can be instrumental in helping to reduce the effects of aging, heart disease and high blood pressure. Yoga keeps the joints oiled and connective tissues pliable. It makes us stronger and more limber in all that we do. The bottom line – yoga just makes you feel better – emotionally, physically and spiritually. And that keeps you coming back for more.

* Gilliam is an International Sports Sciences Association and American Council on Exercise certified personal trainer and fitness consultant. Write to her in care of the Dayton Daily News or contact her at 878-9088 or by e-mail at OHTrainer@aol.com. Her Web site is http://marjie.hypermart.net.

“ROAD TO FITNESS; LEARN YOGA BASICS .” Dayton Daily News. 2002.