Yoga is a 5,000 year old physical, mental and emotional discipline that allows an individual to explore personal insight and clarity, thus creating a healthy mind, body and soul. For some, yoga is a spiritual experience, but it is rooted in ancient Indian science, not religion. Yoga is practiced throughout the world by people of all ages and abilities.

The word yoga originates from the word yoke, meaning to join, or union; union of breath and body, union of energy and physicality, union of the macro with the micro. Yoga teaches us that the path to self discovery starts with a mindful exploration of how we treat the world around us (our Village) and how we treat ourselves (the Villager). Our yoga practice is a discipline through which we gather tools that allow us to find comfort with our own Self and an understanding of our role in contributing to the greater world in which we live.

Learn more about specific benefits of yoga 

What to expect in class
Your first yoga class can be a bit discombobulating. You’ll be asked to listen without looking and move your body in new ways, while trying to keep your mind still. It’s normal to feel challenged just to be in class, let alone move smoothly from pose to pose.

Here are a few basics to help you feel more comfortable while welcoming this new experience:

You will do your practice on a yoga mat; we have some you can borrow for free.
Dress comfortably in typically work-out clothes. Don't wear anything too baggy, as it can get in the way of your movement.
Be ready to go barefoot. We connect to our strength and our balance by feeling our feet on the earth.
Bring water. Water breaks welcomed - full hydration helps to flush out the toxins you'll be releasing.
Don’t eat too much 30-60 minutes before class. Yoga stirs up the internal organs as we breathe, stretch and twist fully into our bodies – this can be obstructed   and uncomfortable if the tummy is full.
Relax! This is your yoga practice, you are not expected to look like the teacher or your neighbor. Move at your own pace - if you want to observe most of your first class, or simply sit and breathe in the energy of a collective practice, that is okay!