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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Our frequently asked questions can help you decide what to bring if you're new to yoga, studio policies, and more.  If you can't find what you're looking for, let's talk! 402.739.9176

Yoga

Can I attend classes if I've never done yoga before?

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it. Drop in...ask questions...enjoy the journey! Things to consider before your first yoga class: - Has your primary care provider cleared you for physical activity/exercise? - Are you able to transition from sit-to-stand (and vice verse) with limited to no assistance? *If transitioning from sit-to-stand requires assistance, please let us know. There are many options available to enhance your practice and we are happy to share them with you ahead of time.



Is there a good place to put my mat if I'm attending my first yoga class?  What help is provided to new students?

A good place to put your yoga mat is in the back of the room, close to a sidewall so that you can use other students as a guide while practicing yoga. We also encourage you to let the instructor know that it’s your first time. They’ll happily give you extra guidance and assistance during class to ensure you’re practicing yoga safely. Have questions? Our yoga instructors love answering questions about yoga or helping students learn more about a specific yoga posture. Ask them anything after class, they’re thrilled to help.



I arrived a few minutes late to class and the door was locked.  Why?

We lock our studio door during class for the safety and security of our students. Our priority is to promptly begin and end each class on time. We recommend getting to the studio 5-15 minutes before class starts so you can set-up and prepare to get your yoga practice on.



What if I'm not flexible?

Yoga actually promotes flexibility. You don’t have to be flexible to start doing yoga. During the workday, much of our activity or, lack there of, shortens muscles. Think about how often you either sit at a desk, in your car or at home. Yoga lengthens and expands muscles while helping you release toxins that build up in your body over time. Becoming more flexible is a great benefit of yoga, but the ultimate goal is to live more powerfully in mind, body and spirit. This gain happens regardless of whether or not you can touch your toes!



What are some of the benefits of yoga?

There are countless benefits to yoga. You’ll turn stress into sweat, rigid into fluid, and our community can turn strangers into friends. Plus, you’ll increase circulation, flexibility and strength, while enhancing sleep quality. A regular yoga practice (at least 3x/week) has been shown to improve the symptoms of many chronic diseases (e.g. arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid disorders).



When can I expect to see progress in my yoga practice?

Yoga has a popular mantra: “Where you are is exactly where you’re supposed to be”. We believe in this wholeheartedly. Everyone responds differently to yoga, based on age, physical condition and genetics. So don’t measure “progress”. Embrace where you are in your yoga practice, and let go of expectations. Yoga is a living practice...enjoy the journey!



My instructor says "Namaste" at the end of class.  What does that mean?

Our yoga instructors often end class with the ancient traditional phrase "Namaste". This gesture is an acknowledgement of one soul to another. "Nama" means bow; "as" means I; and "te" means you. Therefore, Namaste literally means "bow me you" or "I bow to you”. This gesture is a deep form of respect and a wonderful way to seal your yoga practice and hard work.



What does "Yoga" mean?

Yoga can be traced back to ancient India more than 5,000 years ago. Yoga is a Sanskrit word meaning to join, or yoke; a union. Conceptually, yoga is the practice of fully uniting the body, mind and spirit.



Health & Wellness

What is the role of an Health and Wellness Coach?

The role of a Health and Wellness (H&W) Coach is to provide a safe space for clients to explore health and wellbeing related goals and facilitate the creation and implementation of actions towards those goals. DISCLAIMER: A Health and Wellness Coach is NOT a psychotherapist--a mental health care professional with training in psychology and/or social work. If you think depression, anxiety, or other mental health problems may be getting in the way of realizing your goals, please consider contact a licensed mental health professional.



Why would I partner with a coach?

There are many reasons people partner with Health and Wellbeing Coaches. For instance, you might consider looking for one if you: - Need some guidance on moving forward in your career - Want to learn how to take advantage of your own strengths and talents - Don't know what to do about a major life decision, such as a move or promotion - Don't have an acceptable work-life balance - Have a lot of stress - Are not as healthy as you would like to be



What should I expect during a visit with my coach?

First, you'll sit down with your H&W coach over the phone, virtually, or in person. The sessions will range from 15-minutes to an hour. During that time you'll talk about what you want to accomplish. Through the questions your coach asks, together you'll define your goals and the challenges that may stand in your way. Then you'll outline the steps you'll need to take to achieve those goals. - You'll have homework assignments--things to think about or do between coaching sessions to work toward your goals. - You might need to write in a journal or create "action plans" of things you want to accomplish. - Your H&W coach will offer support and guidance along the way, as well as hold you accountable for achieving your goals.



How long should I work with a coach?

You may work with your coach for a period of a few weeks, months or longer. The time frame depends on how often you meet and what you are hoping to accomplish.



What should I look for in a coach?

Because you may spend a lot of one-on-one time with your coach, not to mention trusting them with your goals, make sure the two of you are a good match. You should be comfortable sharing your life's vision with them. You should feel strongly that they’ll help you achieve that vision. You may also want to consider a person with a degree and/or certification from ICF or the International Consortium for Health & Wellness Coaching. Coaches who studied under these certifications get training and mentoring, since the industry is not regulated by any goverment agencies (i.e., state and/or federal). In other words, anyone can say they are a coach, without certification or even training.



General

What should I wear, what should I bring, and when should I arrive for my first class or appointment?

- For your first yoga class, be sure to bring a bottle of water and a yoga mat. If you don’t have a mat, no worries, we have a limited number for newcomers to borrow. - Be sure to wear comfortable clothing. First-timers should arrive 15 minutes before class starts to meet your instructor, ask any questions, and complete necessary paperwork. We want to share yoga with everyone, so come to work hard and have fun!



How do I sign up for a class or service?

Class reservations and/or appointments are available online by clicking HERE. Clients may also download the mobile app to receive announcements, specials, etc. Walk-ins are always welcome; however, individuals who book in advance or are waitlisted will have first priority.



What is your cancellation/no show policy?

Clients are required to check in upon arrival. A twenty-four (24) hour cancellation notice is required to avoid being charged full price for the scheduled class/service, NO exceptions. Class Pass holders and Drop-In students will be charged a 'Late Fee' equivalent to the class rate at the studio where the class was reserved. While we strive to remain reliable in our service of yoga classes even in adverse weather; as a general rule of thumb we will follow Bellevue Public School closures. If you are wondering if class is going to happen, please visit the schedule of classes on our website and/or Facebook for the latest information.



What is your refund policy?

Class. - Class Passes are nonrefundable and expire within three (3) months from date of purchase unless otherwise coordinated with studio management. - Unlimited monthly access is paid on a month-to-month bases and are nonrefundable. Workshop. - NO refunds for workshops unless specified otherwise.