F R E Q U E N T L Y    A S K E D    Q U E S T I O N S
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"What style of yoga do you teach?"
I teach ISHTA yoga, a style founded by Alan Finger that incorporates the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar, Pattahbi Jois of the Ashtanga school of yoga, Desikachar and many others. ISHTA yoga combines the wisdom of Hatha, Tantra and Aryuveda to create a practice that caters to the individual. Rather than offering a generic class for all students, ISHTA celebrates our individuality. Just as we are all unique, our yoga can be unique, as well.

Hatha means Sun and Moon, and in yoga translates as finding the balance in all bodily systems: muscular, skeletal, digestive, respiratory, glandular and nervous. The word Tantra translates directly as expansion and liberation. Through specific meditation techniques, one can expand their viewpoint from the limited world of the Ego (little self) to the unlimited world of the big Self. From this place, we feel connected, loving and harmonious. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine which addresses the imbalances in one's constitution, or body type. Each person needs different things from yoga based on their constitution. Some people like a slower paced class while others want a more heat building practice while some like a fast paced, movement oriented class. By evaluating the student from an ayurvedic perspective, I design a class that addresses her unique constitution.

My teaching is influenced by my experience with Vinyasa yoga, ballet & modern dance, The Alexander Technique, Pilates and by my teachers Alan Finger, Jean Koerner, Kara Sekuler and Beverly Murphy of Be Yoga.

"How long are your classes?"
My classes range from 1 hour to 90 minutes. The first class is always longer as it involves an assessment of your posture, flexibility and strength as well as an Ayurvedic questionnaire.

"How much room do I need in my apartment?"
The great thing about Home Yoga is that it doesn't require a lot of room. All the room you need is enough space for two yoga mats.

"Do you provide the equipment?"
-I provide everything you will need: a yoga mat, yoga blocks, yoga strap and a yoga blanket. If you desire your own yoga mat, I can purchase one for you.

"Do you use music?"
-Music is a wonderful way to enhance your yoga experience and inspire your practice. I have a large selection of CD's for yoga and massage to suit your taste. Music is always optional and if used is kept at an appropriate volume so that I can hear if you are breathing properly.

"What clothing should I wear?"
-Clothing that is comfortable and that you can move in is great; however, large bulky tops can often make it difficult for me to see your alignment. Yoga tops are sold in most sport stores and will make your practice even more comfortable.

"What if I have an injury?"
-Many people are attracted to Home Yoga precisely because they are injured and want to get back into an exercise routine. If you are injured, l will design a class for you that will help and not aggravate your injury. From my professional dance career, I have incurred many injuries myself, including shoulder, knee, and back injuries. These injuries, and the physical therapy that followed, have taught me much about joint diseases. I also have personal experience with scoliosis and how to use yoga to relieve postural deformities. My teacher training included yoga for herniated discs, osteoporosis and many other contraindications as well as a gentle yoga class for the elderly or frail. There is a yoga that is safe and effective for everyone, regardless of one's condition. It's just a matter of asking for it!

"What are the hours of the classes?"
-I teach from 7am to 9pm, Monday through Friday and on weekends by special request.

"Can I buddy up with a friend or partner?"
-Yes! It's often great to have a friend join you for a class if you have the space. I think it also helps keep you motivated to have someone else committed to yoga with you. I have been teaching several small groups now for some time and they all have their own special energy. Sharing your yoga class is also a great way to lower the costs of the class."