These are the top ten questions that students have asked me about Yoga. I have given general answers below. Please keep in mind that the answer may differ depending on you paticular case. If you have a question please contact me at the following address:
Q. What is the best time to do/start Yoga practice (Pranayam, Asanas etc.)?
A. The best time is around sunrise and sunset- that is, early morning and early evening. In general, one can practice yoga at any time. However, you should wait at least two and a half hours after a meal before practicing yoga. There is only one Asana that can be done immediately after eating (Vajrasana), which aids digestion.
The recommended timings for your particular program will naturally vary depending on what practices are included in order to fit your schedule, needs and desires. The length of time that you should do each practice, and the sequence will also vary depending on your particular case.
Q. I have an existing medical condition. Can Yoga help me?
A. It depends on your condition and therefore, I strongly encourage you to write to me for a personalized answer. In general, depending on your condition, personal characteristics and case history, some practices are restricted and others are recommended. My experience has been that with certain conditions, such as Spondilytis, Sciatica, Slipped Disc, Diabetes, Hypertension, Cancer, Stress and Depression, Yoga therapy can be effective.
Many of my students use Yoga Therapy to manage their conditions, and I have personally seen their improvement over the years. Yoga alone is not a silver bullet, and has to be integrated with the overall health management of the individual patient.
Q. Are there any age limits for Yoga?
A. In general, children above the age of five can begin Yoga, and there is no upper age limit. My oldest student is 90 years old, and my youngest student is five.
Q. What is Yoga Nidra?
A. Yoga Nidra is a complete system of relaxation consisting of "Psychic Sleep" in which you enter a state of deep relaxation akin to deep sleep, but in which you retain your awareness. It is used for relaxation, stress management and balancing your personality.
Q. Can Yoga help me lose weight?
A. Yes.
Q. How important is regular practice? How frequently should I do Yoga and for how long?
A. Regular practice is extremely important. It is better to be regular with a small number of practices than to have a large program that is done irregularly. However, in today's modern lifestyle it is not possible to do extended practice daily. As such, your program or "capsule" will be fitted to your own schedule and needs. In general, you should practice at least thrice a week.
Q. What is meditation and how does it help?
A. Meditation has many stages and forms. In general, Meditation is a natural state of focus that emerges when your mind and body are completely relaxed. It is the natural culmination of regular practice of your yoga program. It is an integral part of Yoga, and is slightly advanced in comparision to Asanas.
Q. What is Asana? Pranayama? Mudra? Bandha? Chanting? Shatkarma?
A. These are various practices of yoga. Each practice addresses a particular need of the individual. Your program may consist of a combination these elements. In general Asanas deal with body postures, Pranayama concerns breathing, Mudra concerns postures of specific areas of the body, Bandha with the retention of breath, Chanting deals with sound vibrations, and Shatkarma with cleaning practices.
Q. What is the role of Asanas and Surya Namaskar?
A. An Asana is a bodily posture that is stable and confortable. It is a basic aspect of yoga.
Surya Namaskar consists of twelve postures with three aspects- the sequence, the awareness, and the speed. All three of these need to be adjusted according to your specific needs.
Q. I have never done yoga before. Can I join a class?
A. Yes. You are most welcome.
Q. Can my children do yoga?
A. In general, children above the age of five can do yoga. I have specific experience and particular interest in the teaching of children. Yoga helps with concentration, restlessness, memory improvement, the overall personality and general well being of the child. I strongly recommend that children start yoga as soon as they can.
Q. Do you offer classes for corporate clients/clubs/schools?
A. Yes, depending on time and availability.