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What does Hatha mean?
Hatha is a generic term that has come to denote most styles of physical yoga. Hatha represents opposing energies (following the similar concept as yin-yang). Hatha yoga attempts to balance mind and body via physical postures or "asanas", purification practices, controlled breathing, and the calming of the mind through relaxation and meditation. Asanas teach poise, balance and strength and are practiced to improve the body's physical health and clear the mind in preparation for meditation.
How many times per week should I practice yoga?
The old adage applies with yoga as everything else - the more you put in, the more you get out. A dedicated practitioners can practice for an hour or more every day, but practicing once or twice a week or for just 10 minutes a day can also be beneficial. What is important is being consistent with whatever time you can afford to give to yoga (and yourself), and to build your practice gradually, sympathetically, working with inner awareness and patience.
Do I need to be on a vegetarian diet to benefit from yoga?
No, you can practice yoga without having to be a vegetarian. However, for the most complete yoga experience, a vegetarian diet is preferred. Vegetarian foods are said to calm the mind and sharpen the intellect. The choice remains yours.
How is yoga different from stretching or other kinds of fitness?
While traditional forms of exercise are goal oriented, yoga by contrast is not. The less goal orientated or judgemental we are with ourselves, the more we benefit from our practice. We become more accepting, calm the mind and build awareness of how we feel and what we need from our practice. Yoga also incorporates Pranayama (breath work) and meditative elements. Yoga is infact a moving meditation and the physical postures and the breath are regarded as aids to the practice of meditation.
Is Yoga for everyone? What if I'm stiff and out of shape?
It is perhaps the most common misconception that one has to be flexible to practice yoga. This is not the case. There are numerous styles of yoga, teachers and classes available so their is something for everyone, regardless of what level, age, or reason for practicing.
Can I do yoga at home?
Yoga can be practiced at home. There are many good books and DVDs available these days, but as with anything new, it is advisable to seek instruction from a trained teacher. Certain postures, if performed incorrectly, may cause injury. The most important teacher however is ones self. Practicing with awareness and patience is the surest way to develop a beneficial practice and avoid injury.
Is yoga a religion?
No. It's a philosophy that is nearly 5,000 years old. It is a practical approach to healthy living based on a philosophy that mind, body and spirit are one. However yoga is connected to the Hindu and Buddhist beliefs of karma. Yoga can be practiced without conflicting with any other religious beliefs.
Will doing yoga help me lose weight?
That depends on how frequently you practice yoga and the type of yoga you practice. Certain vigorous yoga practices like Ashtanga and Bikram yoga can help you lose weight through strong physical activity. Yoga can also help with weight loss by improving a persons sense of wellbeing and mood, and thereby helping to curb cravings and balance appetite.
How do I pick a type of yoga and get started?
The good news is there is a wide choice when it comes to yoga. There are numerous styles (from Ashtanga to Restorative) and there are numerous teachers offering different approaches to yoga (strong physical classes to more gentle, contemplative classes). Research the different styles and sample a few classes before deciding which one suits you. Also, if you have the option of choice, it can be very benefical to study with more than one teacher as you will always learn something different in a new class.