It is that time again; yes it’s time to register for next semester’s classes. As students look for classes there can be much joy and disappointment. Mostly disappointment for those who need to fill a gym class requirement and desire to take classes like Archery or any of the Yoga classes. In order to understand the appeal of the practice of Yoga, an interview was conducted with our very own yoga instructor, Ms. Tara Y. Spicer-Bartolain.
Q 1. How do you as an instructor on campus feel yoga benefits a person?
Q 2. Would you say yoga would help manage weight?
A.1. AND A.2. Yoga can help someone improve their flexibility, gain strength, increase energy levels, relieve stress, relax the mind and body, lose weight if combined with a nutritious dietary plan and weekly cardiovascular routine, and improve overall health. Remember as with any new fitness routine, a few muscular aches or pains may occur at first (as one stretches and begins to “wake up the muscles” they may have never used or forgot they had). Commit to your practice 2-3 days per week for 45- 60 minute class sessions.
Q 3. Should yoga be combined with other exercises such as running to reap the full benefits?
A 3. It is not necessary but in addition to yoga, a cardiovascular routine 3- 5 days per week for 30-60 minute sessions and strength training 2- 3 days per week for 30 minute sessions can help one improve their overall health (cardio-strength-flexibility). Yoga alone is fine of course to promote mind-body relaxation and flexibility!
Q 4. Why did you choose to teach yoga/ pilates?
A. 4. I love yoga and pilates! The strength and flexibility I gain from combining the two disciplines is great. Also after practicing, I just feel better, more energy to take on the day,relieve some stress and RELAX! With all that said, I enjoy teaching/helping others learn yoga because I know the benefits are endless!
Q 5. Do men tend to participate in yoga classes? Do older people? Do children?
A. 5. I teach classes to all age levels beginning with age 3. Yes, men and women attend classes.
Q 6. Lots of exercises seem to stress the body, what are the repercussions for doing yoga?
A 6. All exercises/poses if performed properly without any pre-existing health conditions are designed to be beneficial. Issues/concerns may occur when an individual is not educated on proper technique and form. One needs to be very cautious how far they stretchin poses. Sometimes people try the “advanced” modification/option too soon and may injure themselves. One should always practice at their individual comfort level during every class. Somedays we can touch our toes and other days we can only stretch to our knees! Every “day” and every” body” is different and we must acknowledge that about ourselves.
Q 7. What are the important things to consider before doing yoga?
A. 7. Consider the following: pre-fitness assessment to test flexibility and strength, current health status, family health history, past injury/surgery or stress to joints, individual fitness goals……….and practice primarily for health!
There you have it, the wonderful practice of yoga, now that we understand the allure of
yoga and all the benefits it has; hopefully the college will add more sections to satiate the
need.
