Frequently Asked Yoga Questions

Studio Questions

What makes Blue Buddha different than other yoga studios?

Blue Buddha is a special community that has been built upon a foundation of passion for uniting one's body, mind and soul. All of our instructors and support staff have each client's best interests and well-being as their top priorities. Our staff is supportive, caring, approachable and compassionate. We believe that everyone should feel comfortable trying new things + welcoming wellness into their lives. Our studio is judgement free + our doors are open to all.

Do I need to preregister for class?

It's helpful for the instructor planning the class to know ahead of time how many students are attending, but last minute drop ins are always accepted with delight. Due to COVID guidelines, registration is required for all in-studio classes and aerial classes to ensure that there is space available for you in your interested class.

When should I arrive to class?

Arriving to class 5-10 minutes early is always beneficial when possible. You can lay out your mat, grab any necessary props, get some water, use the restroom, catch up with fellow students, etc. This way you don't feel rushed as the instructor begins class, which usually involves a quiet period of centering and breath awareness.

Can children come to yoga at your studio? Is there a minimum age requirement to attend a class?

Yes, kiddos are welcome! Children can also reap the benefits from yoga. Before bringing your child to a class, it's important to be aware of the child's maturity level. They should be able to follow directions without causing a distraction. We will require a minor liability waiver prior to the start of class.

How do I know which class package to purchase?

Figuring out which package to buy might seem intimidating at first, but we're always here to help guide you to the right practice for your goals and schedule. First, talk with a teacher or our administrative team to discuss your yoga goals and levels so that we can recommend classes and teaching styles according to your schedule. If you find yourself only attending one or two classes a week, our mat 10 class card might be the best option for you. If you're attending at least 8 classes a week, our unlimited membership will save you the most money. Give us a call or stop on in so that we can discuss our packages and memberships with you! If you're new to our studio, we recommend starting out with our new student deal! This deal will give you 2 weeks of unlimited access to virtual, in-studio, outdoor, and prerecorded yoga classes for only $30.

Does your studio have yoga props?

Due to COVID guidelines and sanitary practices, we do not have props available for use during class, but we do have props available for purchase.

Do you have yoga gear available for purchase in your studio?

Yes! We carry yoga mats, water bottles, blankets, bolsters, blocks, straps, apparel, and more!

What are the heat levels like in yoga classes?

The highest heat level in our studio is 90 degrees, and that's only in a power class. If it ever feels too hot, let the teacher know so that he or she can turn the heat up or down if necessary. Just know that some warm for flow classes are important so that the muscles stretch safely. On the contrary, in practices that are more about relaxation or compression, and not so much about muscle stretching, cooler room is recommended.

Do I get any massage benefits for being a yoga student?

By joining our unlimited monthly yoga membership, you receive 15% off of all massage services and 10% off of all retail items.

General Yoga Questions

What is yoga?

The word Yoga means unity. Yoga is a philosophy that encompasses ethics, physical practices, and meditation to unite you to your higher self. In America it is considered by many to be a physical practice that can relax, energize, help with flexibility, help with weight loss, or help with over all physical and mental health depending on the type of practice you choose.

What is your cancellation policy?

Please understand that when you forget or cancel your appointment or class reservation without giving enough notice, we miss the opportunity to fill that time, and clients on our waiting list miss the opportunity to receive services. Our appointments and classes are confirmed 48 hours in advance because we know how easy it is to forget an appointment. Since the services are reserved for you personally, a cancellation fee will apply.

• Unattended reservations or cancellations with less than a 6-hour notice will be responsible for 100% of the cost for the class space that was reserved. Students with class cards or memberships will be charged a $10 late cancellation fee. Thank you for understanding and supporting us.

How is yoga different than stretching or other kinds of fitness?

Yoga is different then any other other stretching or fitness because the main focus is breath and the way your breath flows with every movement.

Is yoga a religion? Will yoga conflict with my religion?

Yoga is not a religion, it is a philosophy. The goal of a Yoga Teacher is not to convert you to another belief system but to help guide your inter peace to whatever name your higher power goes by. Some teachers open or close the class with an OM. Om is just a vibrational sound of creation. Scientist have talked about the Big Bang, which is where a sound vibration created the universe. If you break down the syllables of OM it is Ahhh= creation, OOOO= life and MMMM= death. In Christianity there is the Father, Son, and the holy Spirt. So as you can see yoga means unity, to unify your own beliefs in you, not others beliefs.

What are the benefits of yoga?

The benefits of yoga are:

• Learn how to breathe properly
• Better your posture
• Balance your heart rate and blood pressure
• Increase flexibility
• Increased balance
• Yoga helps with digestion
• Yoga helps to balance your hormones + detox your body
• Yoga increases circulation
• Enhance your relaxation, decrease stress

My yoga instructor says "namaste" at the end of class. What does that mean?

Namas = I bow or I honor. Te = you. There is some discussion about this in the yoga community, specifically how the west has adopted the phrase when conventionally it is more of a friendly greeting in India. But, many people regard it as simply a kind gesture of gratitude, compassion and understanding. Or, more poetically, "The divine within me honors the divine within you".

What do I need to begin?

If you're just beginning, it's important to have stretchy, and comfortable clothing to wear that will give your body the space to move. Most yoga studios have yoga gear available for use (mats, blocks, bolsters, etc). Instead of investing in the material things, it's best to invest in your yoga education. Try out our 14 for 30 new student class pass or our 10 class card so that you can try out all different types of classes to determine if yoga is something you'd like to continue with! If you end up falling in love with the practice, then you can consider investing in your practice. Some regularly used props are a yoga mat, blocks, a bolster, a strap, etc. Our teachers can provide recommendations on gear that they use or find is best in enhancing your personal practice.

What do I wear to practice yoga?

Again, the practice of yoga accepts you just as you are. Wear clothing that is comfortable and can stretch with your body. Comfort and support is most important. Try to choose breathable fabrics. Dressing in layers can be helpful so you can remove them as you warm up. For aerial, the instructors kindly request that you wear tops with sleeves of any length to protect our lovely silks.

What yoga style should I practice?

If you are new to yoga, many studios have a beginer series which is a great place to begin! Even better, try a few private classes! Talk with one of our teachers about your goals for yoga and your wellness journey and we'll be able to direct you to the right classes to begin.

I went to a beginner's class and it was too advanced for me...Does that mean that I can't do yoga?

If the beginner class feels too advanced for you, you are not alone! Many people are intimidated from a beginners class. We would encourage you to schedule a private class and to watch some practices online so that you get familiar with the postures, yoga terms, and movement. Remember, Savasana is a yoga practice and if you are in a class that’s too much, you can always lay down on your mat in savasana. We've had students in savasana (corpse pose) for the the majority of the class. This is more than okay! It will make your instructor aware that you might need a little more TLC so that they can approach you after class to help to find the perfect yoga style for you.

How many times per week should I practice?

The amount of times you practice yoga a week is completely an individual choice. It all depends on what you want to get out of it. To fully live yoga, it's recommended to consistently practice at least 3 times a week. However, once a week has huge benefits as does everyday. You should talk to your instructor about your goals and come up with the best schedule depending on your needs, wants, desires, limitations either physical or time.

Can I practice yoga if I'm inflexible or self-conscious about my weight?

YES!! The beauty of yoga is that the practice accepts you RIGHT NOW...just as you are! One of the core values of yoga is a deep understanding that you are enough. So whenever your personal journey brings you to your mat, the practice will meet you there. Always feel free to speak with your instructor to address any personal concerns or past injuries...he/she will be happy to give you options and modifications that will help you progress at your own pace on your personal yoga journey. A good teacher will know how to help with your goals and/or limitations by giving modifications to the poses - not to make them easier but to make them more accessible for all body types and limitations. Everyone's body is different and some will never be able to do the postures to the full form and that's okay! That's why yoga is so awesome because there is no competition, no judgement. Yoga always meets you where you are. It’s a practice not a mastery.

Can yoga help me lose weight?

There is a component of yoga that helps to bring up your heart rate and can help with weight loss. Power flow classes are recommended for this. You can always reach out to your instructor to speak about your goals and gain advice on the practice you should pursue.

Can I eat before yoga?

Similar to any other fitness activity, we recommend eating at least 2.5 to 3 hours before class. This will minimize the likelihood of getting a cramp or stomache.

How do I know if I'm doing it right?

The instructors job is not only to teach the class, but to help each student with learning proper form and safety. Asking the teacher before and after class is always a good way to check on your form. Always listen to your body. If it feels wrong, it probably is, and try going into a position that feels better for you. Try not to look around and compare yourself to your neighbor. You have no idea how long they have been practicing or even if they're doing it right. Remember, it's a journey not a competition. Never hesitate to talk to the teacher before or after class. One of the perks of having a smaller sized studio is that our teachers can provide accommodations to all students during class. You're never just a number.

Can I do yoga if I'm pregnant?

Yes! You can do yoga while you are pregnant. Be sure to speak with your doctor ahead of time and let your teacher know so that they can modify some of the postures for you to ensure a safe practice for you and baby!

Aerial Yoga

What is aerial yoga?

Ariel yoga is a form of Yoga that allow you to deeply release toxins from the lymph nodes of your body. It helps the body with detoxification, digestion, and circulation. In a mat practice, the floor can give your practice resistance where as in aerial yoga, the resistance is diminished. This practice also helps students get into a posture that otherwise would not be accessible in a mat practice. Mentally, aerial yoga allows you to surrender and trust yourself, while also having fun! In aerial yoga, you are suspended from a silk hammock that is placed at about hip height away from the ground. The silk is used as a prop to help you in and out of the postures. The class is normally structured into 3 different sections- warm up, warriors, inversions, and cool down. Fun music plays in the background as it's a light, yet serious class to inspire safety and fun.

Is aerial yoga difficult?

Aerial yoga might seem intimidating at first, but it's extremely rewarding and exciting. These classes are fun, engaging, and open to all fitness levels.

Is aerial yoga safe?

Ariel yoga is safe as long as you listen to the teacher's instructions! The silk is made from the same material that is used in cirque du soleil and is attached with a special non-slip knot to carabineers. These are the same carabineers that are used for professional rock climbing, as they are self-locking to not open up during your practice. The carabineers are then attached to supporting chains - the same ones that are used by back packers. They are hung from a stud and bolt and fortified by other metal equipment and webbing straps. All together, the entire apparatus can hold up to 1,0000 lbs of weight. Your teacher will check each silk and all connections prior to the start of class to ensure that everything is safe for your practice. Your safety during aerial yoga is our #1 priority. Additionally, if you ever feel uncomfortable doing a specific pose, let us know! You are never required to do any pose that you're not comfortable or able to do. We will always be there with you during each pose and inversion to make sure that you are safe and will provide pose modifications when needed. Our teachers are all certified and experienced in this form of yoga.

Do I have to have really strong upper body strength to do yoga?

You do not need to have strong upper body strength to do Aerial Yoga but a little bit of strength will makes the postures easier. If this become a consistent practice for you, your upper body and core will become stronger and your lower body will become more flexible and less tight.

Can I take aerial yoga if I'm pregnant?

No. Aerial Yoga is not safe for pregnant women.

What should I wear to aerial yoga class?

Please wear short or long sleeves for hygiene and cleanliness reasons. We cannot allow you to take the class if you arrive in a sleevless top. Also, aim for form fitting clothing. Loose clothing can get caught in the silk and cause an accident.

Is there an age requirement to take an aerial yoga class?

Jen and Kim's classes are open to minors. Similar to regular mat yoga classes, we would like you to be aware of your child's maturity level before signing them up for an aerial yoga class. Your child must be able to follow direction without causing a distraction. Our intro to aerial class was created so that beginner yogis and those under 18 can try out a beginner level aerial class before attending our regular weekly classes. Some of our weekly classes have participants of all levels and might include more advanced poses. If your child is under 17 years of age, you will be required to be present for the class and to fill out our minor liability waiver.

If your child is between 10-13 years old and you'd like to attend the class with them, please give us a call for more information.

My child LOVES aerial yoga. Do you do aerial yoga birthday parties?

Yes! We'd love to host your child's birthday party at our studio. The cost for an aerial yoga party will include:

• 1-hour aerial yoga class for 5 students (including your child)
• A table for snacks/dessert
• Set up and clean up

Please contact us for pricing and scheduling details.