Frequently Asked Questions

The FAQ section addresses common concerns about yoga and IWY classes, emphasizing that yoga is not just about physical movement but also about self-discovery. Private classes are customized to meet individual needs and may include various practices such as asanas, mantras, and meditation. Practicing yoga offers benefits such as gaining strength, flexibility, and balance in body, mind, and spirit.

What is Yoga?
Yoga is the science of self. Yoga is more than moving our bodies around the mat.  Yoga is about discovering who you are in the present moment.  Yoga is a philosophy, a practice, and a way of life. Yoga is a practice of mindful movement that provides opportunities for self-discovery. In other words, Yoga is more than being able to touch your toes or move into a handstand. Yoga is about getting to know yourself moment by moment,  movement by movement,  breath by breath.  

What do I need to practice yoga?
You need you to do yoga! When you are taking private classes we can adapt your practice to meet you where you are. We do encourage purchasing a mat as it helps with accessing certain poses but is not a requirement as you can adapt poses to meet your physical needs. 

Many of IWY classes are focused on stress reduction and mindful movement which doesn't always include postures that require a firm grip for stability.  For example, we don't include downward-facing dog in every class, and if we do, you always have the option to modify and adapt the practice to meet your needs. We do suggest a mat, carpet or blanket should be used to soften any kneeling postures.   

I'm not flexible, can I still join the class?
Absolutely, you can join us on the mat.  Although flexibility is an outcome of practicing yoga we've designed our classes to focus on self-discovery through a self-compassionate lens.  Plus, if you don't start somewhere how will you find your flexibility? However, we don't guarantee you will inevitably touch your toes as anatomy (bone structure) can restrict specific movement. 

How long are the classes?
Yoga classes are run from 1 to 1.5 hours in length.  Our group classes are one-hour in length.  Private classes are dependent on the purpose.  Clients can choose to combine a yoga and meditation session with a coaching session which could run up to 2.5 hours a session, but can also be as short as 30 minutes.  Private sessions can also be as short as 15 minutes. It all depends on our client's needs and goals. Sign-up for a consultation or send us an email with your questions.  We're here and happy to help. 

What are the benefits of practicing yoga?
There are many benefits of practicing yoga, mindfulness, or meditation - where do we start?
Overall individuals who practice yoga gain strength, flexibility and balance - body, mind, and spirit. Our physical body gains muscles while our mental well-being does the same in a different way.   When we incorporate mindfulness into our asana (physical) practice we become aware of our thought patterns which include where our mind goes when the intensity of the posture increases when held for long periods of time. With this awareness we can then begin to check in with our emotional responses or reactions to these patterns; and in turn, we start to discover our space of peace or bliss within. 

Can I injure myself practicing yoga?
Yes, injuries do happen in yoga.  We encourage moving slowly, mindfully, gently and intently so that we can learn to listen to our bodies and not our egos.  When our body speaks, it is our responsibility to listen and reposition. It is your yoga practice, embrace modifications and props to personalize it. We'll show you different ways props can be used to safely support your practice. 

If I want to sign-up for coaching do I have to practice yoga?
No, we do not force yoga practices on our clients.  Yoga is one of many tools we use to support you in achieving your goals. We offer strategies that utilize creativity and are inspired by therapeutic art for self-expression to help you discover your goals and connect with your inner knowing.  If that is not for you we also use Cognitive Behaviour Therapy methodologies to nurture different pathways of thinking that best serve our clients in achieving their goals. 

What would a private yoga session look like?
Private classes will be tailored to the individual's goals.  Yoga can facilitate energetic movement through the physical practices of asanas (postures), mantras, mudras, meditations and mindfulness practices, as well as breathwork and journaling activities. We will provide a few assessment tools to help our clients understand their current energetic state.