1. What does yoga mean?

Yoga means union. It comes from the Sanskrit word yuj, which means to yoke or join.

A male yoga practitioner is referred to as a yogi. A female practitioner is referred to as a yogini.
  
Although many people think this term refers to union between body and mind or body, mind and spirit, the traditional acceptance is union between the Jivatman and Paramatman, or the union between one's individual consciousness and the universal (divine) consciousness.

Therefore Yoga refers to a certain state of consciousness, as well as methods to help one reach that state of union with the divine.

2. What does hatha mean?

Hatha translates to sun/moon. Ha meaning "sun" and tha (pronounced ta) meaning "moon." This refers to the balance of the masculine and feminine forces.

The “ha” or sun element has properties of being active, intense or powerful and the “tha” or moon element has properties of being soothing, maternal, cooling. 

These forces coexist to bring about the balance of empowerment and humility, or courage and kindness. One allows the other to exist harmoniously, in this practice and in our lives.

So hatha yoga encourages the balancing of the forces of nature within us to experience a state of union, or samadhi.

3. What does the word asana mean?

From Sanskrit, asana translates into "to sit" or "to be present," and in our practice, refers to the physical posture we hold.

We practice asana as a means of steadying the body in each pose for further spiritual work.

You will notice that this term asana is at the end of the name of each posture in class. For example eagle pose is garudasana or warrior pose is virabhadrasana.

4. What does the word Namaste mean?

The gesture Namaste represents the belief that there is a Divine spark within each of us that is located in the heart chakra. The gesture is an acknowledgment of the soul in one by the soul in another. "Nama" means bow, "as" means I, and "te" means you. Therefore, Namaste literally means "bow me you" or "I bow to you."

To perform Namaste, we place the hands together at the heart charka, close the eyes, and bow the head. It can also be done by placing the hands together in front of the third eye, bowing the head, and then bringing the hands down to the heart. This is an especially deep form of respect. Although in the West the word "Namaste" is usually spoken in conjunction with the gesture, in India, it is understood that the gesture itself signifies Namaste, and therefore, it is unnecessary to say the word while bowing.

We bring the hands together at the heart chakra to increase the flow of Divine love. Bowing the head and closing the eyes helps the mind surrender to the Divine in the heart. One can do Namaste to oneself as a meditation technique to go deeper inside the heart chakra; when done with someone else, it is also a beautiful, albeit quick, meditation.

For a teacher and student, Namaste allows two individuals to come together energetically to a place of connection and timelessness, free from the bonds of ego-connection. If it is done with deep feeling in the heart and with the mind surrendered, a deep union of spirits can blossom.

Ideally, Namaste should be done both at the beginning and at the end of class. Usually, it is done at the end of class because the mind is less active and the energy in the room is more peaceful. The teacher initiates Namaste as a symbol of gratitude and respect toward her students and her own teachers and in return invites the students to connect with their lineage, thereby allowing the truth to flow—the truth that we are all one when we live from the heart.

- From an interview with Aadil Palkhivala.
  With gratitude to him and Yoga Journal for this beautiful piece

5. What is a neti pot?

A neti pot is used to perform the Yoga practice of Jala Neti. Jala translates into water.

Jala Neti is a cleansing technique, a form of nasal irrigation or clearing of sinuses for proper, balanced breathing.

Just as the balancing of sun/moon properties in the body is of highest regard in our yoga practice, breathing evenly through both nostrils helps create this balance and is fundamental to our practice.

A neti pot is wonderful to use prior to attending yoga class. Many people use them for reducing symptoms of sinusitis and allergies and they’re now commonly recommended by ENTs (ear nose and throat doctors).

We often have neti pots available for you here at the studio, email info@harmonyhouseyoga.com and let us know if you are interested.

6. Is Yoga a religion?

No, Yoga is a philosophy, not a religion. A religion defines God in terms of a specific faith. A philosophy guides one's lifestyle.

This philosophy was created over 5,000 years ago in India. The practice has a universal adaptability to every religion but is not a religion itself.

7. Can I do yoga if I am not flexible?

Yes, absolutely.  

We have props at the studio to ensure that your practice is safe and comfortable for you. With regular practice you will find yourself more flexible and more confident and you will enjoy the freedom of living with greater ease.

Yes, yoga is for you. Yoga is for all of us.

8. I have knee and/or back related issues. Can I still do yoga?

Yes. You can practice if you have knee and/or back related issues. Just let us know. We are experienced in guiding even the most sensitive bodies.

Yoga is a natural remedy for many ailments.

9. How many times a week should I practice?

A good rule of thumb is 2-3 times a week.

If you can only practice once a week, you will still notice a wonderful difference in your increased flexibility and overall peace.

When you are ready, you will feel a natural inclination to increase your yoga practice.

You can practice up to 6 days a week. It is often recommended that you rest the body at least one full day a week.

10. What is the difference between using a DVD and practicing yoga at your studio?

DVD’s are wonderful for watching others practice.

With guidance, you experience the proper alignment of your body in the postures. Your personal needs will be addressed.

There are no phones, no pets and no distractions - just dedicated, heartfelt guidance and complete peace.

11. Do I need to make a reservation to attend the group classes?

No, reservations are not necessary.

Experience the convenience of attending any group class you wish. You don’t need to call or schedule your group classes online.

We look forward to welcoming you Home.

Click Here for our Group Classes Schedule

12. Where is Harmony House Studio located?

Our address is 9524 Griffin Road, Cooper City, FL 33328. Please click here to view detailed map and directions.