Sacramento Yoga Center
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  FAQ
When considering taking a yoga class for the first time, you often have many questions. We have tried to answer a number of those questions below. The areas we have focused on are Selecting a Class, Attending a Class, and Making Yoga a Part of Your Life. If you still need more information beyond what we have provided on our website, please contact us by phone or e-mail.


Selecting a Class
Attending a Class
Making Yoga a Part of Your Life
Answer Section:

What styles of yoga are offered at the Sacramento Yoga Center?
SYC offers several different styles of Hatha yoga plus Tai Chi Chuan. Our classes range from gentle, relaxing, and meditative to an active and more physically challenging practice. To read about the different styles, please refer to our Styles page.
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I am interested in a relaxing, meditative yoga. Which classes are right for me?
We recommend Ananda, Sunrise or Svaroopa yoga for those seeking a gentler, relaxing, and more meditative experience.
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I am interested in an active, physically challenging yoga. Which classes are right for me?
We recommend Dharma, Eclectic, Iyengar, or Yoga Fusion for those seeking an active and physically challenging yoga.
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I am not flexible, can I still practice yoga?
Yes! Yoga, along with its many other benefits, will increase your flexibility as you practice. Your instructor will be able to provide you with modified poses as you gain more flexibility.
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I am recovering from an injury, can I still practice yoga?
In most cases, yes. Yoga can be a gentle support during your rehabilitation. While it is your responsibility to be aware of your body's needs and limitations, your instructor can help you find alternate poses and a modified practice while you are recovering. It is important that you inform your instructor of any physical limitations you feel you may have, and they will be happy to offer you guidance to meet your current fitness level.
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I am pregnant, can I still practice yoga?
Yes. We offer prenatal classes that focus on the specific needs of pregnant moms. In addition, after your baby is born, we offer a postpartum yoga class for Mom and baby.
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I am overweight, can I still practice yoga?
Absolutely! As you practice yoga, weight loss becomes easier. The physical releases in the body will aid in your digestion, assimilation, and elimination of food. Your internal organs will have more blood flow and energy moving through them and will function much better. You might also notice that you are inclined towards healthier food choices as your body feels better and more alive from your yoga practice.
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I am over 50, can I still practice yoga?
Yes! We know of a woman locally who started practicing yoga at age 70. Now, she is a yoga instructor at age 76!
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I have never been to a yoga class, where do I start and what can I expect?
Arrive a few minutes before the class starts. Remove your shoes and leave them at the shoe rack at the door. If new, introduce yourself to the instructor and tell her/him that you are new, and any concerns you have. The instructor will let you know how to set up your space (some use blankets and props provided by the center and others use nothing at all). Take your space in the room, and wait for class to begin. Your instructor will guide you through the class. Afterwards, you will put away any blankets or props you may have used during class, and then you are free to leave and enjoy all the benefits of your practice.
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Do I need to register for my first class or can I just show up?
All of the classes at SYC allow students to show up (drop-in). If a class does require pre-registration, it will be noted on the Classes page.
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What do I wear to a yoga class?
Wear comfortable clothing such as sweats, shorts, leggings, and a comfortable top. SYC has air conditioning and heat. Dress accordingly for your needs. Jeans are not appropriate.
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What do I need to bring to a yoga class?
SYC has all of the props that might be necessary available for student use. If you like to drink water during practice, you can bring a water bottle. Otherwise, just bring yourself.
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Do I wear socks or shoes during a yoga class?
We ask that you take off your shoes when you come in and place them at the shoe rack. You can keep your socks on if you like. The only time the teacher may ask you to take them off is when you are practicing standing poses or poses that require you to lean into your feet.
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How do I pay for my yoga class?
You pay the instructor either at the beginning or end of class. You can discuss this with the instructor. Some instructors may also offer a discount when you pay for a series or several classes in advance. If you plan to attend a particular class for a little while, you may want to inquire about this with the chosen instructor.
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How long do you recommend waiting to practice yoga after eating a meal?
It is recommended that you wait 1 hour after a light meal and 1 1/2 hours after a heavier meal before practicing yoga. You want to be light and not having to digest a lot of food while practicing yoga asanas (poses) and breathing.
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Can I drink water during my yoga class?
Yes, if you feel thirsty - drink water. We do provide purified water at the yoga center. We especially recommend drinking water following a yoga class, not only to hydrate, but also to help eliminate any toxins you may have stirred up during your practice.
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I need to arrive late. Is that a problem?
If you need to arrive late, please enter the room quietly, remove your shoes, and come in without distracting the class. It is best not to be late your first class since you will not yet know the rhythm and pattern and whether or not you would be disrupting.
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Do I have to become a vegetarian if I want to practice yoga?
No, you do not have to become a vegetarian to practice yoga. Non-violence is a central theme of yoga and many people who practice yoga find that a vegetarian diet serves them better for a variety of reasons. Eating lower on the food chain is good for earth and science shows that a plant-based diet lowers health risks. Others believe that killing animals is violent or that meat is not good for health. A third issue from yoga is that foods influence one's mind. Certainly, if you overeat any food, the mind suffers. You may notice a lighter feeling in the mind when eating vegetarian. However, it is not recommened to make sudden dietary changes (if you choose to become vegetarian, make sure you receive balanced nutrition).
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How often do I need to practice yoga in order for it to benefit me?
The benefits are instant and ongoing. Each person is different in how they respond to yoga, and the time and energy they believe is essential to bring value to their life. Obviously, the more yoga you do, the better you will feel (physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually). Find a time that is convenient and comfortable. Regularity is important. Even 5 minutes a day is a start.
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I want to practice yoga regularly. How can I develop a personal practice to use at home?
When you attend a class, you will essentially be learning a practice (or different components of one) that could make up your personal practice. You may inform your teacher that you are interested in learning a practice you can take with you, and he or she may be able to aid you in that process if you need help.
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How long before I experience the benefits of yoga?
First, you can learn to place small yoga techniques into your daily routine. Conscious breathing can be done anytime. Secondly, as you study the philosophy, you may integrate these ideas into your life. Once your attitude improves, you will notice how stress is reduced and peacefulness is increased.
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I am ready to learn more about the philosophy and history of yoga. What are good resources for me?
Depending upon the style of yoga you are interested in, there are many resources that your teacher could recommend that focus specifically on that style. For more general resources, check the library, any bookstore, or an Ashram or local meditation center.
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I have a very full schedule, how do I fit yoga in?
Find a time that is convenient and comfortable. Regularity is important. Even 5 minutes a day is a start. If you can attend a class once a week, this will enable you to practice with the guidance of a teacher, and ultimately develop a personal practice which you can use at any time. Ironically, it is the especially busy person that most needs a yoga class! Yoga is a wonderful way to unwind, let go of tensions, and clear your mind of busy thoughts. Making time for a yoga class could be one of the best gifts you ever give yourself.
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