What is Yoga?
"Yoga is the science of right living"
The word means union - it is a bringing together of the whole person. A unity and balance of all aspects of ourselves. Yoga is an internal journey to find release and serenity.
Yoga aims at balancing the nervous and endocrine systems. It massages the internal organs and sends fresh oxygenated blood into the tissues and cells of the body. It improves the circulation. It strengthens the deep muscles of the body. It improves the skeletal structure and keeps the joints mobile. It supports the respiratory system and releases the mind from stress and strain. If practiced correctly it should enhance our concentration and our awareness. It is a holistic approach to health and healing. Advanced yoga does not mean the ability to twist into a pretzel but rather the ability to steady and focus the mind.
What is Hatha yoga and how is it different from other styles of yoga?
There are various paths of yoga to suit the different personalities and needs of people and the different seasons of our lives. No one way is the only way. The path must be adaptable and flexible to be able to meet the specific needs and requirements of your present condition and situations in life. The asana must be a living exploration of body and mind. We must not get lost in how the posture looks but rather in how the posture makes us feel.
Hatha Yoga is the collective name for all the asanas (postures) and pranayamas (breathing techniques.) The way in which you practice these postures is then referred to as different styles, but the actual postures stay the same. Hatha yoga classes are a good place to learn basic techniques and breathing exercises. It is a slow-paced stretching class with a very meditative atmosphere.
Dynamic Hatha Yoga or Hatha Flow is slightly stronger than regular Hatha in the sense that the postures are taught in a flowing dynamic form, connecting and synchronizing the movement with breathing practices. It is often referred to as flow yoga. So if you are not keen on doing the slow-paced meditative style of Hatha yoga, Dynamic Hatha yoga or our “flow yoga”… might be the style for you.
Iyengar yoga is a form of Hatha yoga that places a lot of emphasis on the alignment of the body in the postures. Precision of technique is key in this style of yoga. Precision of technique is key in this style of yoga. The postures can be more challenging and the student should have experience and knowledge of Yoga to be able to attend this class and deepen their practice.
Yin Yoga focuses on awareness and is more of a meditative approach to yoga. Yin yoga postures apply moderate stress on the connective tissues of the body, the tendons, fascia and ligaments. The aim is to increase circulation in the joints and improve flexibility, assisting the body as it ages.
Intermediate/Advanced Yoga is a stronger class with more challenging poses and is for those with a good level of understanding of yoga, the philosophy behind it and listening to their body.
Have a look at our class descriptions for more information.
Yoga Connection offers mainly basic, traditional-style, Hatha yoga classes. Periodically we insert a class or two in the schedule of a different style. Watch our schedule for any Gentle Flow / Vinyasa class. Once a week we offer an advanced Iyengar yoga class as well. Try as many classes as you want and feel which style you resonate with most.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Balancing the nervous and endocrine systems
It massages the internal organs and sends fresh oxygenated blood into the tissues and cells of the body
It improves the circulation
It strengthens the deep muscles of the body
It improves the skeletal structure and keeps the joints mobile
It supports the respiratory system
Releases the mind from stress and strain
If practiced correctly it should enhance our concentration and our awareness
It is a holistic approach to health and healing
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All asanas are non-competitive and done with the eyes closed if possible. According to medical science these asanas should relax the mind and create balance in the nervous and endocrine systems. They are of great preventative and curative value. Mentally they induce peace and balance. Emotionally they should harmonise and revitalise. Yoga has been tried, tested and proven over 5,000 years!! Advanced yoga does not mean the ability to twist into a pretzel but rather the ability to steady and focus the mind.
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Nothing. All you need is comfortable clothes. We do have mats, blankets, pillows and any other props you might need for free. Of course, you are more than welcome to bring your own.
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Please do not eat a heavy meal 1-2 hours before practicing yoga.
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No. Yoga is not a religion in itself, it is a science. Yoga, in a sense, is a belief system, a practice that is a way of living.
The practice of yoga establishes and nurtures equilibrium in the whole person to the end that those who practice ordinarily enjoy improved health, mental, physical and spiritual well-being.
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We run special classes for pregnant mums. More information on our prenatal yoga classes
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If you are a first time Yoga Connection student, it is best to be at the studio 10-15 minutes before the class starts. The instructor will be there to greet you and guide you through all the necessary information you would need. He/she will also coordinate with you where the different props, the bathroom and lending library are located.
Identify the class time that suits your schedule (if you have not practised yoga previously, then only choose a Basic/Beginners class)
Arrive at the class about 15 min before the scheduled time. Park on the property (there is usually adequate parking)
Identify the instructor for that class and tell him/her that you are wanting to start yoga
To keep the studio carpet clean, PLEASE REMOVE YOUR SHOES BEFORE ENTERING THE STUDIO ROOM. There is a shoe cupboard/locker in the foyer to place all of your belongings including shoes.
PLEASE SWITCH OFF CELL PHONES
Write your name in the attendance register upon arrival
If you make any payment also record the AMOUNT next to your name in the register
Please be quiet when entering the Yoga Room
Find a space in the yoga area, place your mat / towel / blanket down and lie in shavasana (on your back), eyes closed.
Relax as much as you can on your mat.
DO NOT STRAIN WHILE DOING THE ASANAS - Postures, exercises & stretching. There should be no pain.
Practice with relaxed awareness
All breathing should be long, calm, deep and comfortable. Never Strain. Do not hold the breath if you are suffering from high blood pressure or heart disease.
If you have any illnesses or injury check with your doctor first. Please notify the instructor who is teaching your class to make her/him aware.
Regular practice makes for speedy progress.
All asanas are non-competitive and done with the eyes closed as much as possible. According to medical science these asanas should relax the mind and create balance in the nervous and endocrine systems. They are of great preventative and curative value. Mentally they induce peace and balance. Emotionally they should harmonise and revitalise. Yoga has been tried, tested and proven for over 5,000 years!