Studio 108 Yoga

What is yoga?

Yoga, which means "union" or "harmony," is   both a philosophical system and a science whose goal is the attainment of self-awareness.  Unlike stretching, gymnastics or fitness, yoga is much more than just physical postures. Within the physical practice, yoga is unique because we connect the body's movement and the mind's fluctuations to the rhythm of our breath. As we connect the mind, body, and breath, we learn to direct our attention inward. Through this process of inward attention, we learn to recognize our habitual thought patterns without labeling them, judging them, or trying to change them. We become more attuned to our individual experiences from one moment to the next.

This cultivation of awareness is what makes yoga a practice, rather than a mundane task or a goal to be completed. As a side effect of yoga, your body and your mind will most likely become much more flexible.

Is yoga a religion?

Yoga is not a religion. It is a philosophy that began in India an estimated 5,000 years ago. The father of classical Ashtanga yoga (the eight-limbed path, not to be confused with Sri K. Pattabhi Jois' Ashtanga yoga) is said to be Patanjali, who wrote the Yoga Sutras. These sutras (or threads) provide a framework for mastery over the physical and mental body.

I'm not flexible.  Can I still practice yoga?

Yes!  Everyone can practice yoga. Many people think that they need to be flexible to begin yoga, but that's a little bit like thinking that you need to be able to play tennis in order to take tennis lessons.  The newfound agility you will find through your yoga practice will be balanced by strength, coordination, and enhanced cardiovascular health, as well as a sense of physical confidence and overall well-being.

Which yoga class should I take?

First, read the descriptions of the various classes and styles of yoga to find a class that is suitable for you.  Ask yourself whether you are looking for a vigorous practice or something more calming.  Keep in mind the answers may vary from day to day.  This is part of your yogic journey.  

Foundations, Gentle, Yin, Zen Candlelight Flow and Tantric Hatha yoga generally provide a slower, more gentle yoga class where students focus on details of the poses. If you would like something more fast paced, you might try Vinyasa, Yang/Yin or Ashtanga Basics.  Keep in mind you have control over the "level" in all flow classes for your own individual needs and will be able to make adjustments for your own personal practice. 

Studio 108 Yoga is not like a gym class where students are performing cookie-cutter activities in an aerobic-style class.  As you move forward in your practice, you will find your own style of adjusting the classes to what you need on any given day.  The more styles of yoga you try, the more you will learn. 

Yoga is like traveling the world, the more places you visit, the more you want to see and experience.  See what unfolds for you.

What are the benefits of yoga practice?

The physical benefits of yoga are many. It increases strength, vitality, flexibility and agility. It also eases digestion, while improving the nervous system and blood circulation. A more subtle benefit to yoga is the development of self awareness. Through practice, yoga offers a more creative ability to understand ourselves. This awareness gives us the ability to handle stress and have clearer, calmer thoughts. Yoga improves our attitude and emotional well-being. The ultimate goal is to raise our consciousness, as well as our spirits! 

What do I wear to a yoga class?

Comfortable clothing that allows for movement, such as t-shirts, shorts, leggings or footless tights are recommended for yoga. Clothing can be either loose or form-fitting.  However, please be aware of large t-shirts that fall over your face during inversions! No footwear is required since yoga is practiced barefoot.

How often should I practice yoga?

It has been said that yoga doesn't take time; yoga makes time.  As you start adding more yoga classes to your schedule, you may begin to notice that your perception of time changes.  An everyday practice is ideal. Initially, you will find that including at least 2 - 4 practices per week is beneficial. 

Yoga is fun!  Not only because of the sense of community found in a group practice, but because your body will become more efficient as it creates new patterns and lets go of stress and stale habits that no longer serve you. 

The more you practice, the more these benefits and techniques will become internalized.  As a result, you begin to notice your  state of mind becoming more efficient as well.  As you become more calm and relaxed mentally, you will find your ability to focus on positive aspects of life increases.  This in turn gives you the energy to effectively spend more time on other areas of your life.

What do I bring? 

Studio 108 Yoga studios are fully equipped with all the yoga props you will need.  If you have your own mat, we do strongly recommend that you bring it to class.  Our retail boutique carries a wide variety of the highest quality yoga mats that are available, and we would be happy to assist you in finding the right mat for your practice.  You may bring water into the studios; however, please ensure it is tightly capped to avoid any water spilling on the floor.

Why did you name your studio "Studio 108"?  Pick your favorite reason!

Our yoga studio is conveniently located to the Coppell, Dallas, Lewisville, Irving, Flower Mound, Carrollton, and Grapvine areas.