FacebookTwitterInstagramEmail
Home 2018-05-24T12:47:13+00:00

Yoga Explained

Learn to find the balance in extraordinary simplicity.

Banyan Tree Yoga offers yoga classes that are open to all generations and levels. The practice of yoga allows students to find stillness in a world consumed with chaos. Peace and tranquility is achieved through focused guidance that involves varying degrees of altering energy flows, meditation, connecting with the breath, movement and stillness. Yoga can transform your physical and mental capacity quickly, while preparing the mind, body and soul for long-term benefits.

Common Questions

Browse these quick etiquette tips and answers to our frequently asked questions.

Are your classes suitable for beginners and all levels?

Most of our classes are suitable for beginners and all levels, however, we recommend you take a few other classes or schedule a private session to learn the basics before starting Vinyasa – where we move quickly and introduce more challenging postures. Hatha, Slow Flow, Yoga Nidra, Gentle or any of our Yin or combination classes are all great places to start. Please review our class descriptions so you have a general idea of what to expect.

You are not in competition with anyone else in the class or even yourself. Just do what feels right at the moment and work towards your own comfortable edge. Yoga is all about being in the present. If it hurts or doesn’t feel right, don’t do it. A challenge is good, pain is not! If an asana (posture) is painful for you, please come to a resting pose and see your teacher after class. Pose variations and props are offered as needed.

Are classes open to both men and women?

Yes, classes are open to both men and women. While women are still are biggest population, we’ve seen an increase in male attendance over the years and some of our classes are a very good mix of both men and women!

Do I need to pre-register for classes?

Please pre-register in advance for all classes, trainings, workshops and special events. Pre-registration is used to help determine cancellations. During inclement weather we do reserve the right to cancel any regular class if minimum registration is not met at least 90 minutes in advance. Many of our teachers commute to the studio and want to be thoughtful of their time and commitment to their families.

What should I wear for the class?

Please wear comfortable clothing that is not too loose nor too tight. You want to be able to move freely without restriction. Yoga is performed in your bare feet to keep you from slipping during the postures and it puts you in closer contact with the earth’s energy. Please leave your shoes in the welcome area before entering the main studio.

Are fragrances acceptable?

Many people are sensitive to fragrances so please keep this in mind before coming to the studio. It’s always best to refrain from wearing perfumes or colognes. We frequently use therapeutic-grade essential oils and/or non-synthetic incense during classes. Please let us know if you have sensitivities and when appropriate, we will do our best to refrain from using incense or essential oils while you are at the studio.

What do I do with my cell phone? Is talking allowed during class?

Please turn off or silent all cell phones before entering the main studio. They can be heard ringing even when they are in the welcome area. Please no talking during class. While we want you to have fun and we may inject humor at times, side conversations are distracting to teachers and other students. Please utilize the time before or after class to socialize with your fellow yogis in the welcome area or Green Room. Please extend everyone the same courtesy and respect as you would wish for yourself.

Do you offer warm or hot yoga?

Our classes are comfortably warm. The temperature in the studio varies depending on individual teacher preference, but is usually in the low to mid 70′s. We believe in creating internal heat from within.

How early should I arrive at the studio before my class?

The studio is open 15 minutes prior to the start of each class. Although we may be there earlier, we use that time to open up the studio, prepare ourselves for class or transition between classes. Please use the time prior to class to register and get settled. Every effort will be made to begin and end the class in a timely manner. The door is locked approximately five minutes after the start of each class for the safety and security of everyone and their belongings.

If you arrive within five minutes, please enter the studio area and situate yourself quietly and check-in after class. If it is your first visit to the studio, you need to complete a waiver prior to participating in class.

How do I connect with my breath?

Pranayama (conscious breathing) is an integral part of the practice. Breathing is done through your nose and if for any reason this is difficult for you, breathe as you would normally.

Should I eat before class?

It is advisable not to eat two hours before class. A light and healthy snack is usually fine. Please no gum or food in the studio area. Water is fine.

What do I do with my personal items brought into the studio?

You will find hooks and cubbies in the welcome area. The studio is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Please try to bring everything out that you came in with and check the Lost & Found bin by the front desk for missing items. We donate items left behind every two months. Please do not leave any valuables next to or on your mat, such as eyeglasses, that could be damaged as we walk around the room. Glasses may be placed on top of a block.

What can I expect at the end of class?

During savasana (final relaxation), your body will begin to cool down rapidly. You may want to have a blanket nearby to make you more comfortable. The body and mind will relax more deeply when they are warm.

Do I need to bring my own mat and props?

Please bring your own mat if you have one. We do have mats for rent and several options available purchase at the studio. We also have other props including blocks, straps, blankets, bolsters, pillows, eye pillows and cushions for no charge. Be curious and experiment with props.

Events and Specials

Upcoming events and latest news from our studio.

Healthy Living

Embrace the art of thoughtful moves, cultivating patience, and savoring the moment.

Be Present

Focus on making time for stillness and relaxation.

Welcoming stillness involves consciously slowing down the body and mind sufficiently in order to focus on being versus doing. It is healthy to realize that nothing needs to happen for the present moment to feel complete. Embracing this understanding brings with it a level of self-acceptance and that inoculates us with calm, compassion and centering.

Learn More

“Just love the energy and aura of the studio and the instructors. Kudos to you Brandy! I look forward to having Banyan Tree Yoga as a joyful part of my life.”

Andrea S. • Testimonial
“I liked it so much. She injected humor which was quite nice for a Friday class. She did tend to hold poses a little longer, which was tough, but I appreciated the difference. She was also quite good with my friend’s 8-year-old.”
David C. • Testimonial
“I would like to thank you so much for the wonderful yoga sessions! They are what I really need during this pregnancy and I always look forward to the next session.”
Ediola S. • Testimonial

footer-logo footer-logo footer-logo

Banyan Tree Yoga © Copyright 2018 • All Rights Reserved • Designed by Bad Penny Factory

Get our studio newsletter!
SUBMIT
close-image