Is yoga for me?

Yoga is for everyone!

You can be a word class athlete, a full-time mom or an office worker - yoga can make your muscles stronger and your joints more limber. Meditation should make your mind calmer and more focused. There are many different types of yoga classes: some are slower-paced and more meditative, while some are extremely vigorous and physically challenging, so you are definitely going to find the right one for you. Top

How do I choose a yoga class?

You can either read descriptions of various classes and different styles of yoga, determining what would be more suitable for you, or you can begin by visiting local studios. I highly recommend the latter method. The more styles of yoga you try, the more you learn, and your chances of finding the perfect class become higher. Ask yourself some questions before you begin practicing. Questions such as: "What am I trying to accomplish with yoga?" and "Do I want to simply become more flexible or am I looking for a spiritual guidance?" This will help you to sort out the classes. Top

What do I wear to a yoga class?

Wear loose or form-fitting comfortable clothing. Natural fabrics, like cotton, are preferable, as your skin doesn't breathe well under lycra. This is especially important if you sweat a lot. Yoga pants or shorts are a great idea. When you choose the shorts, keep in mind that you might have to spend some time on your head, so make sure they are relatively tight. Try to keep your whole body covered. Sports tops with open navel are beautiful, but they make it difficult for the instructor to give you adjustments during class. Last thing: be prepared to take your shoes and socks off. Top

How often should I practice?

Ideally, every day, but once a week is better than nothing. Like with everything else, the more you practice yoga and meditation, the more progress you can expect. Even if you can devote very little time to yoga, make sure to make it a regular practice. Top

How do I prepare for my yoga class?

Do not eat for a couple of hours before your class and drink a lot of water. Drinking water during the class is not advisable, as it directs your energy (prana) downwards, while the yogic practices attempt to elevate the prana upwards. The feeling of "yogi high" after the class may not come if you keep drinking during your practice. Don't worry about the level of physical preparation before your class. Yoga is not competitive. You do whatever you can and if things become difficult, take a break. Top

I have knee trouble, can I still practice?

Sure. Just be careful.

Yoga can actually strengthen the knee joints, making them better, but there are certain precautions one has to take. In standing poses, put most of your weight on the back leg, keeping it strong and straight. Do not attempt lotus pose. Practice virasana, hero's pose often. If your knees hurt a lot in this pose, prop yourself up on a few blankets. I had some serious knee troubles prior to the beginning of my practice, and yoga has been a tremendous help! Top

Will yoga help me lose weight?

That depends on the type of yoga you are doing and how frequently. Very vigorous types of yoga practice, such as Ashtanga and Vinyasa are cardiovascular exercise and may help you lose weight if done regularly, along with proper diet changes. Practicing any type of yoga will build strength, but some types may not raise your heart rate enough to constitute the only form of exercise necessary for significant weight loss. Top

What are the benefits of private instruction?

Your private yoga instructor can come to your house whenever it's convenient for you and work with you on the specific poses or elements that you'd like to focus on. The teacher can explain to you how to deepen certain poses, which techniques to use for meditation and how to breathe properly. In my private sessions, you also receive adjustments for the duration of the class, which helps you to go deeper into the pose. Top

Do I have to be a vegitarion to practice yoga?

Even though there are plenty of meat-eaters enjoying the benefits of yoga, I always advocate a vegetarian diet, especially if you'd like to see a rapid progress in your practice. Vegetarian diet makes the body lighter and more supple. Meat-eating is against ahimsa (non-harming), which is among the most important principles of yoga. Yogis try to experience unity with the world, without harming it. You can try to be a vegetarian for a week or two and see how it is affecting your yoga practice and your life. You may love it! Top

Do you offer and special promotions on the Steady Bliss website, if I'd like to purchase your products?

We offer promotions all the time! Now, for example, if you order three Blissful WearT shirts of any kind, you'll receive a gorgeous Anastasia's yoga calendar for 2005 for FREE! ($7.99 value) Top

Why do they always have savasana (final relaxation) in a yoga class?

Savasana is one of the most important poses. It's the reward for all the hard work you've done. It allows your breath to normalize and lets the oxygen flow through the relaxing body. Savasana lets prana (energy) to balance out throughout your body. Never skip your final relaxation! Top

Where is Anastasia located?

Anastasia is currently based in Miami, but travels for workshop and classes. Top

How do we purchase Blissful Wear for our store?

Email Anastasia for a current catalogue and prices. Top

How do we organize a yoga for tennis workshop at our club?

Call or email Anastasia for details. Typically, you'd need to cover travel and lodging expenses and commit to a certain number of participants. Top

How do I get Anastasia to speak at an event I am organizing?

The best way is to email Anastasia the details about your event and she will provide you with her list of topics. Top

Are all yoga practitioners weird? Is yoga a cult?

Yoga practitioners are doctors, lawyers, plumbers, housewives and otherwise normal people who enjoy feeling good. Practicing yoga can make you very strong and flexible both physically and mentally. Yoga does not negate any spiritual or religious beliefs you may already have. Top