What is Yoga?

Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual discipline originating in ancient India. The goal of yoga or the person practicing yoga is the attainment of a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility. Practicing yoga can not only improve a person state of mind but aid in improving their health. There are many different styles of yoga.

What type of Yoga is taught?

Monday and Tuesday’s is Ashtanga otherwise known as power yoga. Ashtanga, which means "eight limbs" in Sanskrit, is a fast-paced, intense style of yoga. A set series of poses is performed, always in the same order. Ashtanga practice is very physically demanding because of the constant movement from one pose to the next. In yoga terminology, this movement is called flow. Ashtanga is also the inspiration for what is often called Power Yoga. If a class is described as Power Yoga, it will be based on the flowing style of Ashtanga, but not necessarily keep strictly to the set Ashtanga series of poses.

Wednesday class is Kundalini. The emphasis in Kundalini is on the breath in conjunction with physical movement, with the purpose of freeing energy in the lower body and allowing it to move upwards. All asana practices make use of controlling the breath. But in Kundalini, the exploration of the effects of the breath (also called prana, meaning energy) on the postures is essential.

Who can do yoga?

Yoga maybe practiced by anyone regardless of gender, age or physical ability. It will enhance your studies, reduce your stress and help you enjoy your free time. However, if you suffer from any specific medical condition you should consult your doctor before practicing yoga. Yoga should not be seen as a substitute for medical practice. Please also inform the yoga instructor prior to starting the class if you do have a medical condition so that they can be aware and advise you how to undertake certain positions without injuring yourself further.

What level are the classes?

As most students who have joint the society have not done yoga before the classes have started at a beginner level. We welcome students from all levels as the classes get harder as the time goes on.

What should I wear to the classes?

Please dress comfortably as if you were going to the gym. Shorts, leggings, jogging bottoms, t-shirts or vest tops are all fine. You will be more comfortable doing yoga bare footed or with socks on. Please refrain from wearing anything that will restrict your movement, such as bulky shoes, jacket, jewellery etc.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for yoga?

It is recommended that you do not eat one hour before coming to a yoga lesson, but be well hydrated.

What should I bring to the classes?

Make sure to bring a yoga mat with you. If you don't have a yoga mat, you can use a towel or travel rug. You may also want to bring a bottle of water with you. Don't forget to bring your £1 for your trial lesson or full membership cost or membership card.

If I have a minor injury can I still participate in yoga?

If you are suffering from any injuries resulting in back or neck pain for example, please inform the instructor as he will notify the class of what postures are safe to do for anyone with injuries. Please do not feel embarrassed; as you will not be singled out, it is very important to us that you don't worsen any problems you may already have.

I am an international/placement student only here for a term can I join the Yoga Society?

Yes you are able to join. In these circumstances the fee for joining for just a term is £20. Please inform the group leader if you are only able to join for a term.

I am a normal student can I pay in £10 installments for each term?

Due to the yoga society’s overheads it is a requirement that every member must pay the full membership cost in one payment.

Can I have more than one trial session of yoga?

We only allow one trial session to encourage people to become full members.

How many classes a week can I attend?

You are only allowed to attend one class a week.

Am I allowed to visit other lessons than the ones I usually go to with my membership?

If you are unable to attend the class you usually go to you are able to attend one of the other classes, as long as it is only one session a week. If you do intend to try out a different campus please let one of the student leaders know that you will be attending another session. After trying out the other classes please stick to a regular class as it becomes hard to monitor our members if students keep chopping and changing.

I have friends visiting me from another university are they able to come to the yoga session?

They are able to come to the yoga session. The fee for them to participate is £3.

I am a distance learner at the university and only come into university occasionally am I able to attend the odd session?

You are able to attend the occasional session. The fee to participate is £3.

I am a lecturer can I join the Yoga Society?

Yes you are however the yearly fee is £50.

Are there any guys in there yoga society?

Yes there are. Each class has a small number of guys that participate in the session.

Are there going to be any social events?

Yes, throughout the year there are going to be a wide range of social events to help everyone get to know each other.

How do I get involved with running the society?

Send an email to yogasoscietybcu@hotmail.co.uk and we can then discuss how you can be involved in the yoga society.