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Frequently asked questions

If I'm new to yoga, how often should I come to class?
The ideal answer to this question is a minimum of three times per week; more may be appropriate depending on your current level of health and fitness.  Either way, consistency is important because consistency will provide results more so than a once- in- awhile drop-in class. The more time you allow between each session the harder it is for your body to "remember" those movements. If for any reason you are unable to come to Castle Hill three times a week, two is better than one; if your schedule only allows you to attend one class a week, we recommend you practice once or twice a week on your own. Our instructors are available for private yoga lessons and they can develop a personalized yoga sequence that you can practice on your own.  You may also attend the Mysore-style Ashtanga yoga classes where the teacher will instruct you on how to practice that particular style of yoga on your own.

What if I have an injury?
If you are injured, we recommend you introduce yourself to our Beginner Yoga classes. You are certainly not limited to these classes, but the beginner class format allows the instructor to spend more time with you on your injury. You may also ask the teacher whose class you would like to attend if it is ok for you to attend their class.  Simply show up a few minutes before the start of the class, ask, and allow them to start their class on time.  You should ALWAYS inform your instructor about your injury at the start of class. Regardless of which class you take, the instructor can only help you if they know what's going on in your body. Many repetitive use injuries can be helped by proper alignment and consistent yoga practice.

How hot do you keep your studio?
Many have heard about the 105 degree heated yoga rooms typical of Bikram yoga. We are not a Bikram studio. To a certain degree, the temperature of the classroom will be determined by your instructor, but within the range of 72 to 80 degrees. We have an independent air system to serve the yoga studio, so the air is always fresh and filtered, and can be set to comfort by each instructor

What should I wear to class?
Although yoga has many relaxing benefits, yoga is most certainly a physical practice. Wear clothes that allow your body to move, bend and breathe unrestricted. Shoes are not necessary.

Which classes are appropriate for me?
All of the classes on our schedule are listed with one of the following levels; ALL, BEG, 1-2, 1-3, 2-3, and 2-4.  Please read the descriptions below and choose the level more appropriate to your level of experience.  If you are an absolute beginner keep in mind your current level of fitness and choose accordingly.  If you are not currently doing any other fitness activity, and have not for a while, then start slowly and attend the BEG level classes.  If you are physically active and have been prior to starting yoga, any class on our schedule that is noted as a Level 1 will be suitable for most students. If in doubt, check with the teacher.

• BEG level classes are open to everyone but are more specifically designed for absolute beginners and beginners with some experience under their belts.  If you have little or no yoga experience, are injured, or pregnant, we suggest you start with a beginner class. Beginner classes introduce the basics of alignment, breath work and simple yoga postures. Beginner classes also move at a slower pace and focus on holding asanas for longer periods of time. Detailed instruction and personalized adjustments can also be expected from the teacher.
• All level classes are open to beginners and experienced students.  You may see someone who has never done yoga next to someone who has been practicing yoga for many years.  Care should be taken in these classes as variations in degree of difficulty for yoga postures will be provided.  Be true to yourself and only do what you are truly capable of doing safely.  If in doubt, keep it simple.
• 1-2 (Novice & Intermediate) level classes are for those who have at least six months of yoga experience and are familiar with basic standing poses.   If you would like the challenge of some more difficult asanas while refining your alignment in the ones you already know then these classes are for you.  These classes will have a quickened pace called flow that moves you from posture to posture. A raised heart rate and a slight perspiring "glow" can be expected until your body becomes acclimated to the pace of the class.
• 1-3 (Novice, Intermediate & Advanced) level classes take the 1-2 level classes further with more advanced practices. The classes designated as 1-3 expect students to be very familiar with standing postures and somewhat familiar with inversions and forearm balances. These classes will be more physically challenging and will typically move along at a faster pace. These classes will continue to provide corrections and instruction. Partner work may or may not be part of these classes. Know your limits.
• 2-3 (Intermediate & Advanced) level classes move beyond some of the basics that may be familiar to Novice level students.  These classes focus on more advanced postures, challenging sequences and even more dynamic flows.  Students may be encouraged to work together on more challenging postures. Know your limits.
• 2-4 (Intermediate, Advanced & Expert) level classes will engage students in intermediate to very advanced asanas.  A strong understanding of yogic philosophy is essential.  Knowledge of alignment and how to maintain your own safety is also essential as these classes may move at a faster pace that may not allow time for a lot of detailed instruction.  The assumption is that participants have a good amount of experience practicing yoga and are aware of their own limitations.

If you have any other questions, please email juan@castlehillfitness.com