Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions:

How is yoga different from other types of exercise or stretching?
Yoga is unique in that it is more than just doing physical postures.  It connects the movement of the body with the movement of the mind through conscious breathing.  This helps the practitioner to focus inward, thus becoming more aware of thought patterns and habits without judgment. The awareness that yoga cultivates helps the mind to become strong and flexible along with the body, thus offering more health benefits, both mental and physical, than a typical exercise regime.  Yogis find that they are gaining as much personal improvement from yoga as they are physical improvement.

How often should I practice yoga?
There is no hard and fast answer to this question.  It is recommended to start with two or three one hour sessions per week.  For some this is easy, and for others this can be a daunting commitment.  No matter how much time you have to dedicate to your practice, you will feel a difference and experience the benefits.  Over time, you will find that your body and mind may begin to crave the yoga because of the amazing benefits you are receiving from your practice.  You may naturally begin to desire to make it more of a priority in your life.  Increase at your own pace, take it easy, don’t ever feel guilty if you can’t make it to class as much as you would like, and just enjoy!

What do I need to get started?
All you need is to show up in comfortable clothing with an open mind.  At Touch of Health Chiropractic: A Creating Wellness Center, we will supply the rest for you.  We have mats, straps and props for you to use, but you are welcome to bring your own equipment if you feel more comfortable.  As your practice develops, you may find that you would like your own things that are personal only to you.

Can I do yoga even though I am physically limited or haven’t tried yoga before?
Absolutely!  You do not have to be an athlete or physically fit to do yoga.  You do not have to be flexible at all.  At Touch of Health Chiropractic we are committed to designing a class that is right for you.  Yoga is meant to increase strength, flexibility, and mobility and can even be done in a chair if that suits your needs.  Your instructor will guide you safely, slowly, and carefully through each pose, so you can try yoga with no previous knowledge or experience. Yoga is NOT a sport.  It is not competitive at all. So your level of ability does not matter.  It is all about self-improvement and is measured only by personal achievement, not based on those around you.

Why am I supposed to refrain from eating a few hours before class?
It is recommended that your last meal is fully digested before you come to class.  The reason for this is due to the fact that there is twisting, bending, etc., in a yoga class and if you have not fully digested your food, it could make you uncomfortable and detract from your experience.

What health benefits does yoga offer?
There are SO many health benefits to yoga that we have dedicated an entire page to it! 

Do I have to change the way I live in order to practice yoga?
No.  You don’t have to change anything in order to practice yoga.  However, as you cultivate a practice you may find yourself naturally making healthier choices in eating and overall lifestyle.  A yoga lifestyle adopts healthy attitudes and possibly a different, more spiritual outlook on life.  Many yogis choose to be vegetarian, however, this is not necessary for you to do. Maybe you can simply begin by setting aside some quiet reflection time for yourself each day.  It is up to you how much or how little you wish to incorporate the yoga philosophy into your daily life.  

What does yoga have to do with Chiropractic?
As with yoga, chiropractic is part of a healthy lifestyle.  Doing yoga can help with your adjustments because it strengthens the muscles around the spine.  Yoga also helps to improve posture, reduce stress, and increase immunity, all of which are part of regular chiropractic care as well.  

Is yoga a religion?
Yoga is not a religion.  It does sometimes incorporate some of the ideas of traditionally eastern philosophies such as Hinduism and Buddhism, however it does not specifically follow one path.  Instead, it is meant to be a tool used for self mastery and to elevate your own spiritual journey, whatever that means to you.  Whether you are seeking to connect to a higher power or to look within and become more in tune with yourself, yoga is right for you.  You can be of any creed, culture, philosophy, or religion and enjoy the benefits of yoga.

What does OM mean?
Om is a mantra, or vibration usually chanted at the beginning and/or end of yoga sessions. It is said that Om is the origin or seed from which all other words are born, and therefore is the sound of all sounds.  The ancient yogis knew what scientists today have proven— the universe is in constant movement. Everything that exists pulsates, creating a rhythmic vibration that the ancient yogis acknowledged with the sound of Om.  As we chant Om, through our breath, our awareness, and our physical energy, we can begin to get a sense of the connectivity of the entire universe, bringing us to a place of higher understanding and peace.