FAQs
About yoga
What is yoga?
To keep things short, yoga is MUCH MORE than poses (or “asanas”). In A.G. Mohan’s words, yoga is “an inner experience - a workIN within a workOUT.”
The system of yoga finds its roots in ancient texts, such as the Vedas or Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. In that system, asanas (the poses) are just one of the 8 “limbs” of yoga. Other limbs include breathing exercises (pranayama), yamas (ethical rules governing interactions with others) and niyamas (personal practices).
Few of the asanas that we practice today are rooted in those ancient texts. They mostly find their origins in 20th century India and were influenced to some extent by some Western practices, such as physical culture. To find out a lot more, I recommend reading Yoga Body: the Origins of Modern Posture Practice, by Mark Singleton.
What is vinyasa yoga?
In vinyasa yoga, movement is linked to the breath, usually at the pace of one movement per breath. Vinyasa yoga looks like a flow, with continuous movements and some pauses here and there as needed. I particularly like it as I find it easier to concentrate and get “in the flow.” The flow can be as vigorous and as gentle, as fast and as slow as required.
I am not athletic/I am not flexible. Can I still do yoga?
YES. Yoga is not about how perfectly you can perform asanas, or whether you can do them at all. We use asanas as a way to train our minds. This is not Cirque du Soleil. That being said, you might experience some nice side-effects. You might get stronger, more flexible and generally more comfortable in your body.
About YOGA OF CHOICE classes
Why did you choose the name “YOGA OF CHOICE”?
Great question! Thank you for asking. Choice refers to the idea that how you feel is not 100% determined by external circumstances but depends in good part on you. You can practice skills, such as awareness of thoughts, reframing, distancing, that will help you cope better with life’s ups and inevitable downs. Yoga is the place where I learnt about those skills and started practicing them, helping me see that I have some choice as to how I feel and I am not entirely helpless.
What does a class look like?
Each class mixes asanas, breathing exercises and meditation for a well-rounded practice. I tailor the exact content according to your needs and preferences.
I usually teach using my voice only to guide you through the sequence and demonstrate only when necessary. The goal is to help you focus on your own practice, your own body, without having to glance at the screen. Some people, including beginners, might prefer it if I demonstrate more.
What should I wear?
Ideally, you should wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely and take off your socks. If you want to take the class while in your office and do not have time to get changed, I can adapt the class to make sure you can keep your office clothes on and do not sweat.
Do I need a mat?
A simple sticky mat is a nice thing to have for all seated and supine asanas. I like using 8mm thick mats for comfort. Blocks are a useful investment too. I prefer those made of foam.
Which streaming platform do you use?
I use Google Meet and will send you a link with a password before each class. You will need to create an account with Google if you don’t have one already.
Can I cancel a class?
You can cancel up until 24h before the beginning of class.
To go further
Do you have some book recommendations?
Yoga reminder, by AG Mohan. A short yet comprehensive overview of yoga.
Bringing yoga to life, by Donna Farhi. Written in plain English, it explains how yoga can be used in our everyday life to help us grow.
Living the sutras: a guide to yoga wisdom beyond the mat, by Kelly DiNardo and Amy Pearce-Hayden. Same idea as the previous one but this one follows closely the structure of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. Short and easy read with exercises to try and think deeper. The authors host a podcast called Living It.
Any book by Jon Kabat-Zinn on mindfulness is great.
The places that scare you, Pedma Chodron, for a Buddhist approach to living with our fears.