Increases flexibility and mental clarity.

builds strength and increases stamina.

Helps to improve the efficiency of the cardiovascular, digestive, nervous and glandular systems.**

Helps improve symptoms of stress, muscular tension and fatigue.**

Psychologically, it is known to help balance the hemispheric activity in the brain.**

May help induce state of relaxed awareness which affects intelligence, emotions, and self-perceptions, which, in turn, help improve the quality of one's life.**

* Information taken from Yoga Teacher Training Handbook by Don Stapleton, PhD and Amba Stapleton.

How do I begin? Find a class or session on the schedule that appeals to you. Your first class at the studio is free if you mention this offer to your teacher. We welcome drop-ins to most classes unless otherwise marked on the schedule.

It takes four things for a person to connect with a yoga class. A teacher that you relate to, a style of yoga that you enjoy, a space in which to practice that feels good to you, and a class time that matches your schedule. If your first venture to just plain yoga doesn't provide one of these try a different class with a different teacher.

Is flexibility important? No. It comes as you practice. Don't even worry about touching your toes! You do not need to get your leg behind your head in order to practice yoga. You don't have to be flexible or enlightened, just willing to move your body and open your mind. The benefits of yoga come with dedicated practice.

What class would I take as beginner? Our easy hatha yoga, kundalini yoga, iyengar yoga, and beginner yoga sessions are excellent classes for those new to yoga. Asthanga basics is a beginner level class for people who prefer a more physically challenging yoga practice. The vinyasa/ashtanga, rasa vinyasa and hatha flow classes usually move more swiftly from posture to posture and are appealing to beginners who are already physically fit. Those who have already practiced yoga, runners, athletes, dancers, and others who do not have any physical limitation might connect with a more intense physical practice. If you have limited mobility due to extra weight or are recovering from injury then try our gentle yoga, iyengar or hatha yoga classes. In the end, it boils down to preference- try a class and see which style works for your body! That's why we are here!

I heard that yoga is healing. what if I have an injury/condition that limits my movement? can yoga cure it? Yoga can be a healing practice when applied intelligently; the more the instructor knows, the more he or she can help you modify your practice and support your healing process. If you are recovering from injury, surgery, or disease then it is best to have approval from your doctor or therapist. Depending on your condition, you may want to begin with private sessions where you will get one-on-one attention. If you decide to attend a group class and you have a physical issue, please let the instructor know. Most of our instructors are registered professional yoga teachers which means they have over 200 hours of quality training and are able to help you modify the practice to suit your body or refer you to another style or teacher if you are not comfortable in the class.

What to wear? Wear clothing that is comfortable and seasonally appropriate. It should be supportive and not too baggy. Close fitting shorts and tee-shirts work fine, as do tights and sport tops. Layer so that you may shed when you get warm and re-layer for relaxation.

Do I eat first? It is preferable to practice on an empty stomach (1-2 hours after a snack or 3-4 hours after a large meal.) If you need to eat before practice, try to keep it light to avoid discomfort.

Do I bring water to class? Try to hydrate before you practice so that you do not need to interrupt your flow. Just Plain Yoga does provide filtered spring water.

Do I bring a yoga mat? Yoga mats or "sticky mats" provide traction while doing postures. If you do not have a mat, the studio offers a limited number of "rental mats" for $2. We also have mats made of natural rubber (eco-friendly) and less expensive mats for purchase.

What else should I bring? The studio offers towel service but you may choose to bring your own towel. Yoga straps and blocks are not required but may be used for specific classes. Just Plain Yoga offers a limited number of yoga straps, blocks, zafus (cushions for sitting).

How often should I practice or take class? More than once a week if possible! Whether you come to a class or practice at home, the more regularly you practice the more result you will see. 5 or 10 minutes is better than nothing so do a few poses that you remember from class or practice a relaxation ... that's a GOOD one to practice! If nothing else, just watch your breath and quiet your mind for a few minutes each day.