Asana Yoga Center

Featuring the only
Yoga Rope Wall
in NW Indiana

155 1/2 Lincolnway, Second floor
Valparaiso, IN 46383
219-309-7860
between Bistro 157 and Locks of Fun

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FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions (and their Answers)

"I'm not flexible, so is yoga not for me?"

Yoga is for everybody! Your flexibility will improve tremendously in time AND you will gain health and strength as well.

"Isn't yoga just a bunch of chanting while sitting around cross-legged?"

Not at all! We are quite active, learning different poses to increase the health and fitness of the body while also learning to still the mind. You will learn how to relax by being active.

"Are men welcome in yoga?"

Absolutely. Professional football and basketball players have been using yoga for some time to increase their performance. Men will find that their hamstrings and lower backs have never felt better after several yoga sessions.

"Do I need to bring my own mat?"

No. Asana Yoga Center is fully equipped with props and mats. If you own your own equipment, however, please feel free to bring it.

"I hear yoga moves slowly. Will I be bored in class?"

I've never met anyone who was bored in yoga. Both your mind and body will be fully engaged during your entire session. You will probably be surprised at how quickly the time passes.

"May I bring my teenager to class?"

Of course. Teens truly benefit from yoga as it improves their posture and flexibilty while teaching them better self-confidence and a healthy body image.

"Will everyone be more advanced than I? I don't want to look silly in class."

Our students range in age from 12 to 73, with the average age being about 35. Some can do advanced backbends while others cannot touch their own kneecaps (yet)! So, no, you will not look silly in class!

"Can I still do yoga while I'm pregnant?"

Absolutely! Our instructors are able to accommodate your needs in a regular class OR you may take the prenatal class currently offered on Mondays. Please let your instructor know as soon as possible if you suspect you are pregnant. With excellent care and precautionis, yoga can be practiced right up to your delivery date!

"Do you meditate in class?"

No, we recognize meditation as a personal endeavour although we do help you lay the groundwork for successful meditation. If you prefer group meditation, let us know and we can suggest some groups for you to try.

"What am I supposed to be doing while I'm in Savasana (Corpse Pose)?"

During our final relaxation pose we are attempting to still our minds, allow our breathing to become soft and even and conscientously relax our bodies.
During this time it is essential that you be aware of your surroundings and your body and that you remain non-judgemental of both. In other words, you may hear someone talking, but you are not processing what they are saying. You notice that thoughts are in your mind, but you do not try to banish them nor do you give them your attention. Thus, the body and mind become still and connected, leading one to the first stage of meditation.

"What about babysitting options?"

Well-behaved, independant children are welcome at our studio! We provide toys, books, crayons and quiet games for children to occupy themselves in our lounge or back room. However, if your child needs attention or becomes noisy, YOU must be the one to go quiet them or decide to take them home. We ask that you always consider your fellow students first.

"Is yoga religious?"

Yoga is not a religion. It is, however, an excellent way to strengthen your spirituality by teaching mindfulness as well as acceptance of yourself and others.

"Then, what's up with your statues?"

We have many statues in our studio of mythical figures in fabulous yoga postures. They are to inspire your final pose as well as to show you that yoga need not be done with a grimace on the face! Our statues of Buddha simply indicate our fondness for his message of peace and acceptance as well as the delightful expression on his face.

"Which class is best for me?"

If you haven't tried yoga before, we urge you to try our Intro class to get a firm grip on the basics. However, the best class for you is the one that fits into your schedule. We would rather that you actually come to class whenever you can thank worry about starting at block one. We'll help you along.

I can't make the Intro class, but I'm reticent to try one of the other classes that do fit into my schedule.

Rest assured, you are welcome at all of our classes. Our motto is to never humiliate anyone at any time. It is intimidating enough to actually enter a yoga class, much less keep up with people who have studied for over five years! Each instructor is aware of all the levels in her class and adjusts accordingly. We teach to the lowest level student in our classes first while keeping things challenging for our advanced students. Also, our advanced students are understanding and actually eager to help out those less advanced than they. It's simply a by-product of our yoga community! So, please, join us whenever you can.

How do I register for classes?

Please print and fill out the two forms on the Fees and Forms page and bring them with you to your first class. Pre-registration is not required, but try to arrive a few minutes early so we can go over your forms before class. If you have specific concerns, please call or just drop in before or after any scheduled class.

I notice you are in the middle of a session. Is it okay to come in or should I wait until the next session starts?

Please, come while you are thinking about it! Our classes are not necessarily dependant on the previous ones and our instructors are excellent at giving thorough and easy to understand instructions so you won't be lost. Drop-in rates will apply until the next session starts.