What is Yoga and why do it?

Yoga means Union.  Union means bringing things together.    Yoga helps to integrate our body and mind together.  Yoga is an excellent way to exercise our body and mind, so we stay healthy physically and mentally.

Who would do Yoga?

Everyone!  Kids to elderly, men and women.  Please check with your doctors first if you have special health concerns or recent injuries/surgeries.  Most poses can be modified to safely practiced for all levels of practitioners. 

How do we breath in Yoga?

Ujai Breathe.  Ujai means audible sounding.  Breathe in through the nose, slightly (not hard) tightening the belly, engaging Mula Bhanda (see next paragraph), allowing the rib cage to expand in all direction.  Breathe out through the nose making the chest fall down then the rib cage softens.  Mouth is closed.

What is Mula Bhanda?

Mula Bhanda means Root Engagement.  It refers to gently contracting Perineum (Pelvic floor muscle).  This is done by imagining you have to refrain from using the toilet.  This technique is very similar to Kegle Technique.  It helps to correct Incontinence, protect your spine and surrounding muscles, and focuses your mind to present moment.  It is the very same technique used in Pilates to strengthen your core (abdomen and spine) system.  It may take several years before one can engage Mula Bhanda through out the Yoga practice.  As my wise Guriji said, "It's the Journey, not the desitination."

How do sit in Yoga?

Legs crossed comfortably, or one or both legs extended.  You can use cushions or blankets for more comfort.  Whatever helps you to sit upright need to be implemented.  Body is a structure.  For a structure to be constructed soundly, it must have forces present in equal and opposite directions.  Press down through the sits bones, and press up through the crown, engaging Mula Bhanda. 

How do we stand in Yoga?

Legs together or slightly apart, especially if you have tight hips.  Stand tall by engaging leg muscles and pressing down into the feet, pressing up through crown, shoulder pulled back and down, chest open forward.  Don’t lock the knees.  Mula Bhanda engaged.  When your "Grandmother" told you to sit or stand tall, this is what she really meant.  More is discussed in

How often do we practice Yoga?

For beginners, try one class per week.  As you build your practice, increase to two or more classes per week.  It is recommended that you try different styles (over 40 to choose from!) and different instructors.

What do we wear to practice Yoga?

Comfortable exercise clothes, two-piece or one-piece spandex workout clothes (not too tight!) or looser fitting jump suites.  Jeans or other movement-restricting pants or skirts are not suited for practice.  Please be sensitive and respectful to other Practitioners by NOT wearing overly exposed or suggestive clothing.  Please DO NOT wear heavy scent or cologne, for others may be sensitive to its smell. 

What are props and why do we use them in Yoga?

Props are things that help us go deeper into stretch and support us.  First and foremost, there is the Yoga mat.  If you are a beginner, it is recommended that you get a sticky (Tapas) mat.  Often the instructor carries good quality mats.  For hygienic reason, it is STRONGLY recommended that you get your OWN mat and clean it from time to time.  You can choose not to use one when you become more experienced.  You can also use other types of mats, such as cotton mats, or padded mats.

Yoga blocks are used to help with balancing and added support. 

Yoga ties are used to help with tight muscles.

Cushions are used to support the back, hips, knees.

Blankets are used to support or to cover during Savasna (relaxation practice).

Eye pillow is used to deepen the relaxation practice.

Water bottle.  Most of us are chronically dehydrated!! It is highly recommended that you drink at least 1/2 of your body weight converted into ounces each day.  For example, if you weigh    150 lb, drink 75 oz of water everyday.  If you are not feeling well, double it! 

If you have Yoga related questions, please contact Yeong at (508) 868-8940 or email her at info@smilingcircleyoga.com.

Why do we Practice Yoga? (Benefits of Yoga)

Because regular YOGA Practice can…

… & Much More...Try & Experience Yoga!