Yoga classes in Vancouver

So you are thinking about starting yoga, but you are worried that it will be too difficult for you, or will even hurt you? Maybe you'd like to try a beginners yoga class, but you think you're too stiff or too weak, or too over-weight or too old. Maybe you're afraid that everyone else will be able to twist themselves into pretzels, while you can't even touch your toes. Or maybe you're sure that everyone else will be half your age or weight, and that you'll stick out like a sore thumb.

Well, let me tell you, with so many styles to choose from, beginning yoga classes can accommodate varying abilities and physical needs. So read on to get familiar with the different styles of yoga to find one that fits you.

A few different styles are,

• Bikram Yoga- Get ready to practice yoga in 105 degree heat and in 40% humidity -- hot!


• Hatha Yoga- Also good for beginners, Hatha typically requires a lot of breath work.


• Vinyasa Yoga- Vinyasa is usually a fast-paced type of yoga with lots of different poses.


• Kundilini Yoga- "Kundalini" refers to the energy of the Root Chakra, which surrounds the area around your lower spine. Expect lots of work on your "core" area and your abs.
• Ashtanga Yoga- Commonly called Power yoga, Ashtanga is physically demanding. It's probably best suited for an ex-athlete or someone looking to sculpt their body. Iyengar Yoga- Expect lots of props with this type of yoga such as blocks, harnesses, straps, and even cushions. There's also a lot of focus on alignment so Iyengar can be great for physical therapy.


• Anusara Yoga- Founded in 1997 by John Friend, Anusara is epitomized by "the celebration of the heart. It is one of the more spiritual types of yoga and you should expect a more upbeat, community-type vibe in a class


• Kripalu Yoga- Considered to be one of the most gentle forms of yoga, Kripalu has more of an "inner focus." It's a great type of yoga for those who are either out-of-shape or just beginning to practice, as you'll learn the basics in an easy manner.


• Restorative Yoga- Looking to wind down after a long day of work? Or perhaps you want to quiet your mind?


• Jivamukti Yoga - Jivamukti is mostly practiced in NYC as it was founded there in 1984. It's a diverse type of yoga as you might find music, chanting, and scripture reading in a class.


• Prenatal Yoga - If you're an expectant mother then Prenatal yoga is probably for you. (Sorry, guys!) Some say that prenatal is one of the best types of exercise for moms-to-be as there's a lot of core work and a focus on breathing.

What initially attracted me to the yoga studio that I belong to was that they offered the first class for free. Some studios even offer an unlimited week of yoga for the price of a single class. I believe if the product is that good, it will sell itself.

Here are some studios that offer good price, different styles, & above all the experience….

YOGACARA: The good news: The space is beautiful and calming, the class size is small, it's easy to sign up for a class (even the day before), and the instructors are really good. If you like a more beginner/gentle yoga, most of the classes are for you. They also offer Pilates twice a week. The bad news: It's expensive for how many classes they offer and the monthly fee. But a week for $35 unlimited is a good chance to try before you really buy into it. Also, they provide mats, all the props, blanket, and tea/water for each class.

ROBSON ST YOGA: The instructor / owner is fantastic & classes are amazing. They even offer evening classes.
The studio is very intimate and personal, Class prices are very reasonable too, 15 drop in and 130 for a 10 class pass. This studio is a fab addition to the neighbor hood!!

UNITY YOGA TEAHOUSE: This place is for everyone, NOT just beginners. The instructors here do not push you. They gently guide you to listen to your own body. The instructors give you options if you are more advanced and want to push yourself. You have to love this gentle approach. Take advantage of their introductory offer 10 classes for $99.

YOGAPOD: Another studio that offers a wide variety of yoga styles, but their focus & expertise seems to be hot yoga. They have 60 & 90 minutes class, drop Ins are $15 & $20 respectively. They are also launching a 30-day Fall challenge starting Oct 1.

THE VANCOUVER YOGA STUDIO AT TRELOAR: The Studio at Treloar is Vancouver's first physio-based studio offering a variety of yoga, pilates and group exercise classes. Their small class sizes and highly trained teachers ensure you get the guidance you deserve. They also offer a full clinical physio checkup & have other services like acupuncture, etc.

If you want to check more yoga classes see VancouverClasses.Ca

Rima Mehta is a nutrition educator, registered yoga trainer and writes about health and nutrition. To contact Rima, call 480.326.0138, or email her at rima@theeasynutrition.com
To connect with her online go to http://www.facebook.com/natruallyhealthy

Ominous 12 pat_tomei@hotmail.com +1-9056076957