FAQS & ETIQUETTE
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BOOKING ETIQUETTE Registration for classes will be completed on our fitDegree App and must be done before you enter the studio. You can buy packages on fitDegree or visit the schedule page for each location to book. Class sign up will be available 14 days before class begins. There will be no refundable cancellations after 2 hours before class starts. If you would like to withdraw from any class please do so before this time period. A cancelation fee will be charged 24 hours after a class is missed. In the event of a family or medical emergency please use this window to call us and we can adjust your account. |
STUDIO POLICIES:
- Please bring your own mat, towel, and water bottle. These items are sold at studio if you need to purchase them. Mat rentals are available for $2.00.
- Front doors are locked at the start of every class. Please try to be on time. If you are running late please call so we may notify the instructor.
- Everyone will need to read and sign an updated waiver before attending studio classes.
- All purchases are non-refundable and non-transferable.
- Passes and memberships may not be shared with others or across locations.
- For your convenience we can save your credit card on file for quick and easy transactions.
- Every effort is made to hold class on time. The schedule is subject to change without prior notice. Please check the online schedule for the most up-to-date schedule.
- Free Spirits Yoga is not responsible for the safekeeping of your personal belongings. Please take them with you.
- Free Spirits Yoga reserves the right to refuse entry.
- Terms, Conditions, and Fees are subject to change without prior notification.
- Please notify teachers of any previous injury, illness, or conditions that may impact your practice.
FAQ
What is yoga?
In very simple terms, yoga is a system for bringing balance and union to your body and mind. It is comprised of the physical practice of yoga postures called asanas, and breathing exercises called pranayama. Yoga also includes meditation, self-enquiry and the study of yoga philosophy.
‘Yoga’ in the Western world tends to focus mostly on the physical asana practice – the yoga poses. This is a great place to start but there is so much more to discover as you develop your yoga practice.
I’m a yoga beginner – which style should I start with?
Beginner is not a term you'll hear us use often as we should all approach every practice as if we were beginners. Instead, we are more interested in how active of a practice you are looking for. We also term each class as more holding of poses or flowing - moving from pose to pose more quickly.
Most gentle - Restorative
Slowest moving - Hatha, Hot 26 & Yin Yoga
Mix of holding & flow - Warm Fusion, Hot Fusion, Non Heated Fusion
Most active - Hot Power
How do I know if I’m doing it right?
Developing this body awareness takes practice so follow the cues and adjustments given by our instructors. Take the more simple variations of poses and listen to what your body is telling you. Please refrain from doing something that is painful on the body. If there is any type of “warning” pain, such as sharpness or pinching, listen to your body and come slowly out of the pose. Through a yoga practice you will learn what is discomfort ( we sit here) and what is painful (release the pose!) We will give variations and options so feel free to make each practice your own. Please ask any of our knowledgable instructors any questions you may have.
What are the benefits of yoga?
Practicing yoga has loads of physical benefits:
The spiritual benefits of yoga are also key: Yoga teaches you to be aware of what is going on inside and outside of you. Yoga teaches you to be present in your surroundings and open to what is all around – in other words, more mindful.
You will feel some benefits immediately, such as the release of physical tension, the body opening and muscles strengthening – the “feel good” factor that keeps people hooked on yoga. Other benefits depend on how much you practice and every person is different. But most people will feel a positive change after a few classes.
How often should I practice yoga?
Even if you practice once a week, you’ll feel the difference. If you can, try to practice two to three times a week but don’t let unrealistic expectations stop you from doing shorter practices. Focus on, and be proud of what you do, rather than focusing on what you think you should be doing.
Can I eat before yoga?
It’s better to have a more or less empty stomach during a yoga session, so leave at least two hours between a main meal and yoga. Digestion of food requires energy and when you do yoga straight after a meal, your energy goes to the muscles you’re exercising and the body can’t digest the food properly. Personally I might have half a banana or a handful of nuts if I feel I’m too hungry to practice, to give me the fuel I need.
I have a health condition. Can I still do yoga?
Many people practice yoga as a way to manage their health conditions. There are many different types of classes which suit different health needs and can also be adapted and modified for injuries. However, if you have a medical condition or injury and haven’t practiced yoga before, we recommend that you discuss it with your doctor first about any poses or movements you need to avoid. Always let our instructors know your limitations and they will be able to give you variations if needed.
Can I do yoga while I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant, check with your doctor or health professional before starting yoga.
If you’ve never done yoga before, it’s generally recommended not to to start during the first three months of pregnancy, since your body isn’t used to it. However, if if you’re a regular practitioner, you can continue. But there are some poses to avoid, including twists, inversions and strong core work.
You also need to be aware that during pregnancy and breast feeding the body produces hormones (relaxin) which will make you more flexible, especially in the hips and pelvis. Therefore you will need to work more on maintaining stability in the joints so that you don’t overstretch them. Where possible stick with specific pregnancy yoga such as prenatal yoga.
What is yoga?
In very simple terms, yoga is a system for bringing balance and union to your body and mind. It is comprised of the physical practice of yoga postures called asanas, and breathing exercises called pranayama. Yoga also includes meditation, self-enquiry and the study of yoga philosophy.
‘Yoga’ in the Western world tends to focus mostly on the physical asana practice – the yoga poses. This is a great place to start but there is so much more to discover as you develop your yoga practice.
I’m a yoga beginner – which style should I start with?
Beginner is not a term you'll hear us use often as we should all approach every practice as if we were beginners. Instead, we are more interested in how active of a practice you are looking for. We also term each class as more holding of poses or flowing - moving from pose to pose more quickly.
Most gentle - Restorative
Slowest moving - Hatha, Hot 26 & Yin Yoga
Mix of holding & flow - Warm Fusion, Hot Fusion, Non Heated Fusion
Most active - Hot Power
How do I know if I’m doing it right?
Developing this body awareness takes practice so follow the cues and adjustments given by our instructors. Take the more simple variations of poses and listen to what your body is telling you. Please refrain from doing something that is painful on the body. If there is any type of “warning” pain, such as sharpness or pinching, listen to your body and come slowly out of the pose. Through a yoga practice you will learn what is discomfort ( we sit here) and what is painful (release the pose!) We will give variations and options so feel free to make each practice your own. Please ask any of our knowledgable instructors any questions you may have.
What are the benefits of yoga?
Practicing yoga has loads of physical benefits:
- Promotes weight loss
- Increases flexibility
- Tones the body
- Improves breathing, energy and metabolism
- Improves circulatory and cardiac health
- Improves fitness levels
- Helps alleviate pain
- Improves posture
- Improves mental health
- Improves your emotional state
- Helps you relax
- Encourages self-confidence
- Improves focus
- Increases energy.
The spiritual benefits of yoga are also key: Yoga teaches you to be aware of what is going on inside and outside of you. Yoga teaches you to be present in your surroundings and open to what is all around – in other words, more mindful.
You will feel some benefits immediately, such as the release of physical tension, the body opening and muscles strengthening – the “feel good” factor that keeps people hooked on yoga. Other benefits depend on how much you practice and every person is different. But most people will feel a positive change after a few classes.
How often should I practice yoga?
Even if you practice once a week, you’ll feel the difference. If you can, try to practice two to three times a week but don’t let unrealistic expectations stop you from doing shorter practices. Focus on, and be proud of what you do, rather than focusing on what you think you should be doing.
Can I eat before yoga?
It’s better to have a more or less empty stomach during a yoga session, so leave at least two hours between a main meal and yoga. Digestion of food requires energy and when you do yoga straight after a meal, your energy goes to the muscles you’re exercising and the body can’t digest the food properly. Personally I might have half a banana or a handful of nuts if I feel I’m too hungry to practice, to give me the fuel I need.
I have a health condition. Can I still do yoga?
Many people practice yoga as a way to manage their health conditions. There are many different types of classes which suit different health needs and can also be adapted and modified for injuries. However, if you have a medical condition or injury and haven’t practiced yoga before, we recommend that you discuss it with your doctor first about any poses or movements you need to avoid. Always let our instructors know your limitations and they will be able to give you variations if needed.
Can I do yoga while I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant, check with your doctor or health professional before starting yoga.
If you’ve never done yoga before, it’s generally recommended not to to start during the first three months of pregnancy, since your body isn’t used to it. However, if if you’re a regular practitioner, you can continue. But there are some poses to avoid, including twists, inversions and strong core work.
You also need to be aware that during pregnancy and breast feeding the body produces hormones (relaxin) which will make you more flexible, especially in the hips and pelvis. Therefore you will need to work more on maintaining stability in the joints so that you don’t overstretch them. Where possible stick with specific pregnancy yoga such as prenatal yoga.