What is yoga?
The best way to describe yoga is probably to say that it is a way of life. The yoga we are most familiar with in the West is called “Hatha Yoga” or the “yoga of movement.” Yoga originated in India over 5,000 years ago (a lot longer than any fitness trend!) The word “yoga” means “unions,” or, simply put, the union of mind, body and spirit.
Is yoga a religion?
No. Yoga is not a religion. It has no bible or other doctrine that its students follow. Instead, yoga is a practical system of healthy living, which includes movement and diet.
Does it matter if I’m not at all flexible?
No! We offer classes for all ages, levels of fitness and flexibility. Actually, many people, especially athletes, are not particularly flexible. With time, yoga will contribute that dimension of flexibility to everything you do. Meanwhile, we encourage you to develop a flexible mind. Just let go. Focus on breathing, sweating and moving. Yoga is NOT a competitive sport! Instead, yoga helps us to look at our bodies and ourselves from the inside out. So, whoever you are, however old you are, however long it has been since you stretched or moved, yoga is for YOU!
I have a previous injury. Can I still try yoga?
Yes! If you suffer from back or neck pain, repetitive stress injuries (like carpal tunnel syndrome), arthritis, bursitis or osteoporosis, you can not only try yoga, you’re bound to benefit from it. Just see your instructor at the beginning of class to discuss your individual health circumstances.
Please note, however: If you suffer from any severe or unusual medical conditions (such as heart disease, high blood pressure, a previous head/neurological injury, a high-risk pregnancy, etc.) it is your responsibility to get permission from your personal physician before embarking on any new exercise program. Again, please inform your instructor of any and all individual health concerns before class.
What should I wear/bring to class?
First off, come ready to practice in bare feet. This is the traditional (and safest) way to practice. The sticky mats we use in class are further insurance that you do not slip while you practice. Second, wear loose or stretchy clothing, but don’t confuse loose with baggy. Comfortable clothing is a good choice, but too loose is not ideal (when you are in downward-facing dog, a baggy t-shirt hanging over your face seriously inhibits your breathing). Think draping, soft fabrics.
How challenging will the classes be for me?
Your first classes may be difficult as you begin moving your body in new, healthy ways. You’ll sweat, twist, lunge, reach and balance as you build strength and flexibility. But you control the intensity of each pose as you flow through the process. Soon, you’ll experience small victories. Over time, your progress will be amazing!
How can I incorporate yoga into my fitness routine at the gym?
Most people use yoga to complement everything else they like to do…practicing yoga will help your body both to become stronger and more flexible which helps with your gym plan. However, the more you practice the gym plan, the more it interferes with the progression of yoga. In other words, if you love the gym plan more than yoga, the yoga will help you to continue with the gym as you grow older…it will help reduce injury and will help to repair injury should it occur.
How often should I practice?
Consistency is the key to success. A practice of 4-6 times per week can be life-changing. A practice of 2-3 times per week will transform you a little more slowly. The important thing is to make yoga a healthy, regular part of your life.
Where are you located?
We are located at 7809 Ventnor Ave, Margate. We are right next to Hot Bagels and across from Downbeach Deli! Contact us at 609-822-5800 or
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Think you know yoga?
You’ve got company.
More than 85 million people are practicing yoga today, all over the world.
For additional information please contact us at:
609-822-5800
Or, just stop by and sign up for a class!
MARGATE: 7809 Ventnor Ave (between Essex and Franklin Ave next to Hot Bagels)
and
OCEAN CITY: 12th and Asbury inside Modern Bujutsu (right on the corner, next to Bennie's Breads)
Directions
FROM MARGATE BRIDGE: Take the Margate Bridge to Jerome Ave. Make left on Ventnor Avenue. NJ Yoga Zone is about 1/2 mile on left, across from Downbeach Deli and next to Hot Bagels. We are located on the corner of Essex and Ventnor Ave.
FROM OCEAN CITY: Take bridge to Longport. Travel on Ventnor Ave through Longport and into Margate. Pass Jerome Ave and shopping area. NJ Yoga Zone is on the left, corner of Essex and Ventnor, across from Downbeach Deli and bank, next to Hot Bagels.