What is Yoga?
The Sanskrit word yoga has several translations and can be interpreted in many ways. It comes from the root yug and originally meant "to hitch up," as in attaching horses to a vehicle. Another definition was "to put to active and purposeful use." Still other translations are "yoke, join, or concentrate." Essentially, yoga has come to describe a means of uniting, or a method of discipline. A male who practices this discipline is called a yogi or yogin; a female practitioner, a yogini.

The Indian sage Patanjali is believed to have collated the practice of yoga into the Yoga Sutra over 2,000 years ago. The Sutra is a collection of 195 statements that serves as a philosophical guidebook for most of the yoga that is practiced today. It also outlines eight limbs of yoga: the yamas (restraints), niyamas (observances), asana (postures), pranayama (breathing), pratyahara (withdrawal of senses), dharana (concentration), dhyani (meditation), and samadhi (absorption, liberation, enlightenment).

Today many people start out practicing yoga in the third limb, asana, then realize there is more beyond the obvious physical benefits to receive from a consistant practice.

What are the benefits from a consistent practice?
Obvious physical benefits include:
• natural weight loss
• greater flexibility
• increased strength
• toned muscles
• balance
• coordination

Beyond that are more subtle benefits including reduced stress, improved focus and concentration, inner peace and serenity not to mention wanting to become a better person. Having respect for your body whatever fitness level, shape, size or age you are. Being grateful for what you have and are able to offer others. From the experiences we have had with participants, they all seem to agree that you gain much more from your yoga practice that you ever imagined you would.

Who can practice yoga?
Yoga can be practiced by all ages and fitness levels. Participants who are in good health and do not have any physical limitations can participate in group classes. Individuals with health concerns and major physical limitations are encouraged to participate in private sessions.