New to yoga or Pilates?
Before starting ANY new exercise regimen, particularly if you are not currently exercising, you should consult your doctor.
Wear clothing that is comfortable, breathable and that moves with you. (Loose/untucked t-shirts are not recommended, as they fall over the face/head during inverted poses, and restrict breathing).
Some classes, depending upon the format, are meant to be challenging. Please do not be discouraged if you find it difficult initially. Be patient, push yourself when appropriate, pay attention to your body and heed its signals. Remember the foundation of a mind/body practice is body awareness. With regular practice you will quickly see marked improvements in strength, flexibility, balance, posture, and concentration. Notice and celebrate the changes as you grow.
During your workout, always challenge yourself, but do not ever FORCE a pose or exercise. If you feel pain for any reason, STOP immediately.
If you have had injuries of any kind, particularly to the knees, back, or neck, please be mindful of pain in these areas, and also advise the instructor. You will be able to perform a very effective workout, but you should be aware of modifications, to avoid putting stress on these areas.
Try to allow 3 hours after a meal before your workout, and 1 hour after a snack. Do not drink a large quantity of water/beverage within 1/2 hour of class. Your stomach should be empty to allow for deeper breathing (not to mention you will also be sloshing around).
Synergy yoga classes focus mainly on:
- Asana - Posture, poise, balance & control
- Pranayama - breathing control/technique
- Vinyasa - the flowing breath-synchronized movements that link these together. Initially you will want to focus on correct posture and alignment, tying in your breathing as you learn. With regular practice, your yoga workout will flow seamlessly from beginning to end.
- Relaxation/Meditation - a time to release tension from the body and mind.
Synergy Pilates classes focus on the principles of classical Pilates:
- Concentration
- Centering
- Control
- Breath
- Precision
- Flow
- Balance
- Relaxation
An important premise of the disciplines taught in our studio is the ancient practice of mindfulness, or being "in the moment." Attempt to withdraw from the stresses of the world around you, and from thoughts of the past or what is to come. Concentrate on the sound of your own breath. When you find yourself distracted, bring your focus back to the breath. Pay attention to your body, continuously making subtle adjustments in order to achieve balance and deepen your posture.
Yoga and Pilates are highly individual practices, and never a competition. Always do what feels most comfortable for you on that given day and at that given time, NOT based on what you did yesterday, or last week, and not based on what the person next to you is doing. When you enter class, any competitiveness should remain outside. No matter how familiar one may be with the discipline, everyone's practice varies from day-to-day in strength and flexibility; your practice should reflect this. There are modifications for every exercise or pose, and you should do the one that is best for you at that moment.
If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to talk with your instructor after class!
Namaste!
(Sanskrit term of honor between teacher/student; "my light honors your light")