1. What kind of yoga is offered at the Tenth Ox Studio?
Tenth Ox offers a wide variety of yoga classes, ranging from gentle hatha and kripalu yoga, to more vigorous and challenging ashtanga and power yoga classes. We also offer alternative practices like Tai Chi and Qi Gong. Please click here to learn about our current class schedule . Our classes are tailored for beginner through advanced levels.
2. What is yoga and what are the benefits of practicing yoga?
Yoga is a 5000 year old practice, and the benefits of yoga are many. Yoga is about “union” of body, breath, and mind. The practice of yoga may include asanas (postures), pranayama (breathwork), as well as chanting. The physical practice of yoga increases strength, vitality, flexibility and balance. It also eases digestion, while improving the nervous system and blood circulation. A more subtle benefit to yoga is the increase in self-awareness. Through practice, yoga offers a deeper ability to understand ourselves. This awareness gives us the ability to handle stress better, and feel more ease in our daily lives. Overall, yoga can improve our physical, mental and emotional states of well-being.
3. I'm not flexible. Can I do yoga?
Yes! You are the perfect candidate for yoga. Many people think that they need to be flexible before they begin yoga. Come as you are and you will find that a yoga practice will help you become stronger and more flexible.
4. What do I wear and what do I bring?
Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing that allows you to stretch. Shorts, yoga pants, tights, sweatpants, and tank tops are all fine. No footwear is required since yoga is traditionally practiced barefoot. Bring your own yoga mat and if you prefer, a water bottle. You may also bring your own pillow or blanket for use during the class. If you do not have a mat, you can borrow or buy one at the studio.
5. Can I eat before class?
Try not to eat anything heavy right before class. A good rule of thumb is to not eat a meal within two hours of your class. Ideally, it is recommended to practice on an empty stomach. A full stomach may cause discomfort and distract you from your practice.
6. Why is there chanting of OM? Do I have to chant?
The chant of “Om” and other chants are mantras, spoken in Sanskrit. Chanting is creating a connection to ourselves through sound, and is a positive, uplifting experience. The chants resonate throughout the body, creating a sense of harmony and peace. Chanting is optional of course, although we find that many hesitant beginners soon give in to the uplifting moment! The process of chanting is meant to bring people together in a fun and inclusive practice.
7. Is Yoga a religion?
Yoga is not a religion and does not affiliate itself with any religion. As such, yoga is appropriate for followers of all or no religious denominations. Yoga is often considered to be a personal spiritual practice. And perhaps it is helpful to consider the distinction between “religion" and "spirituality." Spirituality, it can be said, has to do with one's interior life, the evolving understanding of one's self and one's place in the world - what Viktor Frankl called humankind's "search for meaning." While many of us Westerners come to yoga primarily for its physical health benefits, it is commonplace for most people who practice yoga to, in time, find its meditative qualities and more subtle effects on the mind and emotions equally beneficial. Simply let your own practice be just that, your own, with the meaning that you ascribe to it. All are welcome to join a yoga or other type of movement class at the Tenth Ox!
8. How do I book a massage appointment?
For interested clients, please book a session directly with the healing arts practitioner of your choice… they will also be able to answer any questions you may have about their particular type of wellness service. Please click here for our current list of practitioners and their contact numbers.
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