The myth prevails to this day. However, you’ll be thrilled to learn that yoga isn’t just about flexibility. We’ve all peered into a yoga classes at our local fitness centers and had our jaws drop at some of the contorted positions in which yoga enthusiasts twist their bodies. The fear that your instructor would have [...]

People all over the country see yoga as the answer to their need for relaxation and flexibility, but if you’re not careful, the wrong move can lead to injuries, such as pulled muscles in your back and shoulders. Mark Blanchard, a yoga instructor and owner of Yogatime in Beverly Hills, California, offers these pointers for [...]

The short answer is between one and six times a week. Once a week will keep you in touch with yoga but progress will be difficult. Yoga can be tiring initially. When you start practicing there is so much new information that one can quickly become overwhelmed. Many people find that they can only practice [...]

It does not need to because yoga is not a religion. It is true that yoga originates in ancient India where religious practice grew to become what we know of today as Hinduism and Buddhism. Because of this, many of the more traditional yoga schools may be influenced by these teachings. You may see and [...]

As with most exercises, it is best to practice yoga on an empty stomach, says Mara Carrico, author of Yoga Basics. Why? Internal pressure on the organs increases with many of the poses, so a position that puts any pressure on a full stomach or bladder could be quite uncomfortable and could even cause nausea [...]

The best way to learn yoga is to study with a teacher you respect and with whom you feel comfortable. After “shopping around” for a teacher, stick with one until you feel at home with what you are learning. Jumping from teacher to teacher can lead to confusion. Ask your teacher to help you create [...]

Question: I have a spinal condition called scoliosis. I like to practice yoga because the movements are so slow and relaxing. But sometimes it hurts while I’m doing a posture. Should I discontinue or stick with it? Answer: You should definitely continue your yoga practice, even though you have scoliosis (a curvature of the spine). [...]

Bhakti yoga is the practice of converting the emotions into devotion or unselfish love. Yoga’s numerous health benefits, its potential for personal and spiritual transformation, and its accessibility make it a practical choice for anyone seeking physical, psychological and spiritual integration. The philosophy of bhakti yoga suggests that just as one may have a feeling [...]

Understanding the art and science of yoga not only deepens your practice of yoga postures, but also deepens your experience of life itself. Quite simply yoga is the Art and Science of Living. Perfecting the techniques of yoga is perfecting the life which you were born to live. Here are some terms that will help [...]