Yoga originated in India in 2,700 B.C. as an all-encompassing discipline that includes physical, mental, and spiritual practices. A Sanskrit word meaning “union” or “to connect”, yoga is meant to connect practitioners to their Highest Self.

What we generally think of as “yoga” today – the movement practice – is actually just one of eight core elements of yoga. Other key aspects of yoga include meditation and breathwork.

Yoga is a highly individual practice – what you get is directly correlated to what you give. Below is a list of potential benefits of a regular yoga practice. Seek, and you will find:

• increased strength & flexibility

• decreased stress

• relief from chronic pain

• better cardiovascular functioning

• improved balance – physically, mentally & emotionally

• more consistent, higher-quality sleep

• greater self-awareness, self-trust & self-esteem

• central nervous system regulation

• trauma healing

The majority of the classes at Yoga Nyla are Hot Power Vinyasa. The room is anywhere from 90 to 99 degrees. This is a lower temperature than traditional Hot Yoga (formerly known as Bikram), which is typically 105 degrees or more. Most yogis become accustomed to the heat after their first few classes, and the benefits are well worth the extra sweat!

If you are looking for nonheated classes, come see us for Kundalini, or Yin Yoga, both of which are 75-85*. For full class descriptions, visit our classes page.

Hot Power Vinyasa yoga is a dynamic practice that is guaranteed to get your blood flowing and sweat dripping! If we’re doing our job right, it will also help you gain strength, confidence, and freedom in both your body and your mind. Finding the instructors & class times that fit best with your unique needs & preferences is part of the journey on which every new student embarks.

For these reasons, we highly recommend that you take advantage of our New Student Special so that you can try out at least three different classes and teachers. The ideal class for you offers the optimal degree of challenge with support, structure with freedom, and discipline with FUN! For full class descriptions, visit our classes page.

One of the many advantages of yoga is that it requires minimal equipment. To feel prepared, make sure you wear comfortable, athletic clothing – what you might wear for a hike or a run. Bring plenty of hydration – we recommend at least 24oz of water with added electrolytes. We have everything else available in-studio for rental, but you might also bring your own:

• Yoga mat

• Towel (beach towel OR yoga mat towel)

• Hand towel

• Yoga block

• Yoga strap
  [for restorative classes:]

• Yoga bolster

• Blanket

One yoga class a week will certainly have a positive impact on your health & life. However, to get the most benefit from your practice, we recommend taking class at least two or three times a week. The optimal frequency of your yoga practice depends on several factors. In deciding your sweet spot, be realistic about your schedule & level of fitness.

There is no single “right” way to practice yoga. A general rule of thumb is that if something hurts, it’s not right for you. Keep in mind that what feels comfortable or even fantastic for one person may be painful for someone else. Our teachers at Yoga Nyla will guide you into poses with targeted body cues, demonstration, assists and analogies. Part of the practice is to discover the body awareness necessary to decide what’s best for you.

A consistent yoga practice can help those with certain health conditions to help manage their symptoms. Restorative classes like Yin Yoga can benefit students with limited mobility. We suggest you speak with your primary care physician about your specific health concerns and follow their recommendations regarding yoga or any other physical activity.

We’ve ALL been there! Growth & learning stems from trial & error. Here are some tips for those moments when you might feel lost or discouraged:

• take a few slow, deep belly breaths to calm your nervous system

• come into child’s pose or seated meditation to collect yourself

• peak at the students or teacher at the front of the class

• escape the heat by stepping into the lobby for a moment

• be kind to yourself – we were all beginners at one point in time

Yoga is not a religious practice. Like martial arts, yoga is a discipline that involves physical & mental practices. Practicing yoga will not interfere with your religious or spiritual practices. You may even find that the increased mindfulness & awareness that yoga brings to your life strengthens your existing belief system and bring your closer to the divine.

Yoga is for everybody and every body! Ideal outcomes like fitness & flexibility are achieved over time.

If you have concerns about your physical capabilities, try Yin Yoga, Slow Flow, or Kundalini. These classes will help you gain awareness of some of the most common movements so that you feel more comfortable attending our heated, faster-paced vinyasa classes.