How do I know what class is right for me?

As a yoga studio owner, I often hear a few variations of the same questions or statements. Here are a few:
• I’m not flexible enough to do yoga

• What’s the difference between vinyasa and hatha?

• Is yin a restorative yoga class?

So I’m here to debunk one of those statements and to clarify and provide guidance on the classes we offer at Razz.

I’m not flexible enough to do yoga.

For starters, no one is too “inflexible” to do yoga. The only thing you need is a flexible mind! Honestly, the reason yoga practitioners are flexible is because they DO yoga, so if you’re finding your inflexibility an obstacle to trying out our offerings, I challenge you to step into the studio, and onto the mat and just see. You might not be able to touch your toes this week or even at the end of this year, but you will find that you’ll gain so much more in many other ways as a result of your practice!

What’s the difference between vinyasa and hatha?

Vinyasa is a sanskrit word that translates as “to place in a special way.” In relation to yoga, it refers to the practice of connecting one asana to the next in coordination with the breath. Generally speaking, vinyasa classes are synonymous with flow classes. These classes are meditative experiences that allow you to learn how to transition easier not only between poses but on and off the mat. At Razz we offer two styles of vinyasa—heated and slow flow variations. In the heated class you can expect a more vigorous sequence; the room is also heated to 90˚F. You’ll leave class feeling simultaneously invigorated and calm. In our Slow Flow class, we spend a bit more time in each posture, but still link the postures together in a flowing sequence. This class has a meditative feel to it, while still taking your body through a variety of movements.

Hatha yoga refers to a yoga practice that is focused on the physical aspects of yoga—the postures and breathwork. At Razz we have instructors that practice hatha yoga from a variety of lineages, including Dharma and Iyengar. Dharma Yoga is named after its founder, Sri Dharma Mittra and blends hatha yoga with numerous other styles with a focus on yogic philosophy and meditation. Classes focus on specific vinyasa sequences so you’ll find familiarity over time during your practice. Dharma yoga is much more than just a physical practice—it incorporates all 8 limbs of yoga as outlined in the Yoga Sutras. This class is an excellent option for anyone looking to truly understand yogic philosophy while practicing asanas, breathwork and meditation. 

Iyengar yoga is another hatha class we offer at Razz. Named after its founder, B.K.S. Iyengar, this class focuses on alignment and utilizes a lot of props to enhance and modify the asanas. In an Iyengar class you will find that you hold postures for longer periods of time to build strength and flexibility in both body and mind. Expect to utilize blankets, straps, blocks and bolsters in every class!

Is yin a restorative class?

Yin yoga is a style of yoga where you hold postures for 3-5 minutes in order to stretch the connective tissue around the joints and quiet the mind. Although it isn’t as active as a hatha or vinyasa class, a yin class isn’t necessarily restorative. In both practices you will hold postures for an extended period of time (some restorative classes have you holding postures upwards of 10 minutes!). However, the purpose of each practice is fundamentally different. In a yin class you are focusing on stretching the connective tissue, which can sometimes feel uncomfortable. Part of the practice is learning how to “be” in those difficult places with the benefits of increased range of motion and increased overall flexibility. In a restorative class, you are using props to support your body so you can fully rest, with the intention of removing as much discomfort as possible. We find that the two are beautiful classes to complement each other!

If you ever have any questions about our schedule or class offerings, or have a particular type of class you’d like to see at Razz, please don’t hesitate to let us know!