FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to class?
Yoga and Pilates mats are supplied at all classes. However, if you have your own mat please bring it along as it is more hygienic. Mats are also available to buy from Planet Yoga at a discounted price. Please email your enquiry to sally@planetyoga.net. If you are attending the pre-natal yoga class, please bring along a small cushion to use in relaxation.
What should I wear?
Please wear loose or stretchy clothing so you are comfortable when you are stretching and relaxing.
Can I eat or drink before the class?
It is advisable to avoid eating 2-3 hours before class. Practicing yoga or Pilates directly after you’ve eaten hinders your digestion as well as being very uncomfortable when you work through the yoga postures or Pilates movements. Also avoid too much tea or coffee before the class as this will dehydrate you. Drink plenty of water before and after the class and a little fluid during the class. This will help to flush out the toxins that are released during your practice and therefore increase detoxification. There is often concern regarding increased visits to the WC when fluid intake is increased. This will normalize after a week or two as your body gets used to the change.
NB: Please note that if you are attending pregnancy yoga it is advisable to eat a light snack an hour before class to maintain blood sugar levels.
What if I’m not flexible?
You do not have to be flexible to come along to a class. Every person will be given postures and movements to suit their level of flexibility and fitness. By practicing yoga and Pilates regularly over time, your flexibility will increase. However, the rate at which an individual’s flexibility increases will vary dramatically from person to person. The best advice is not to compare yourself to others and enjoy your practice and the progress you are making.
What will yoga and Pilates do for me and my body?
By moving the physical body in this way, you will increase flexibility of both your muscles and joints and address any imbalances your body may have. This in turn increases your mobility, allowing your body to move more freely and with less tension.
By practicing both yoga and Pilates your muscular strength and core stability will also increase, leading to less risk of injury, decreased lower back pain and stronger bones. Your circulation will also improve so your body is more efficient at processing oxygen leading to improved energy levels.
Furthermore, as both yoga and Pilates aim to restore the nervous system to its natural state, you will find your mind is more calm after your practice This also helps to improve your sleep and regulate your appetite.
Will I lose weight by practicing yoga or Pilates?
There is no quick fix solution to weight loss but with increased calorie expenditure you will find your body shape starts to change. With consistent practice, you will lose inches as the muscles are repetitively worked and as a result become more firm. Yoga also teaches us awareness of the physical body and behavioural patterns, leading to a deeper connection with our minds. You will find that as a result of this deeper connection, your appetite is regulated and negative food cravings become less common.