FAQ
Four Peace through Yoga teachers (from l to r): Sally Brown Bassett, Christine Yovanovich, Audra Kahn, Christine Dolan Kessler
What is Peace through Yoga’s mission?
It is to create a nurturing community in a serene environment that supports the mind, body and spiritual transformational principles of yoga and enable individuals to celebrate their highest potential. This is accomplished through our wide variety of classes, our international retreats, and our Yoga Teacher Trainings.
Where are the two Peace through Yoga locations and how to I get there?
1. Peace through Yoga Zionsville
575 S. M.ain Street (corner of 106th Street and Zionsville Road)
Zionsville, IN 46077
2. Peace through Yoga Eagle Creek
6040 DeLong Road
(In the heart of Eagle Creek Park)
Indianapolis, IN 46251
Upon entering the park follow the signs to the Marina. Before you get to the Marina there will be signs on the left for Peace through Yoga and Peace Learning Center. We are in a beautiful old building set amongst the trees and overlooking the water.
Do I need to register for a class?
You can easily book on-line for one class or a set of 10 classes for Peace through Yoga Zionsville studio. www.peacethroughyoga.com under Schedules/Zionsville. At our Eagle Creek studio, you do not need to register in advance. Arriving early will help you get settled in prior to the class. Registration is required for workshops.
Do I need to buy a set of classes or can I purchase one class at a time?
The majority of our students purchase a set of 10 classes that can be used for any class in a four mxi onth period. A drop-in rate is offered at a higher price. Sets are not transferable to both studios. Sets must be purchased separately at each studio. Class sets are good for six months.
What are the prices for classes?
Zionsville – $12 a class when purchasing a set of 10 classes for $120; $15 drop-in
Eagle Creek – $10 a class when purchasing a set of 10 classes for $100; $13 drop-in
How early do I need to show up before class starts?
Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the start time of your class or workshop, especially if it’s your first time at Peace through Yoga.
What do I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows for stretching. Shorts, sweatpants, and tank tops are fine. However, please be aware of large t-shirts that fall over your face during inversions! No footwear is required since yoga is practiced barefoot. Bring a yoga mat, if you have your own.
I’m not flexible. Can I do yoga?
Yes! You are the perfect candidate for yoga. Many people think that they need to be flexible before they begin yoga. Come as you are and you will find that a yoga practice will help you with strength, endurance, and flexibility.
Can I eat before class?
Try not to eat anything heavy right before class. A good rule of thumb is two hours before class. It is recommended that you practice on an empty stomach. A full stomach may cause discomfort and distract you from your practice.
I am Christian (or Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, Atheist etc.). Can I practice yoga and meditation?
Yes, most definitely. Yoga is a spiritual science which is very universal in its approach. It can be practiced by individuals of all creeds and with any set of beliefs. In many instances, yoga practitioners have found that after a few years of practice there were becoming better Christians, Jews, Muslims etc. There is absolutely no contradiction whatsoever.
Do you have mats that I can borrow?
We have loaner mats for you as well as yoga blocks, straps and eye pillows for meditation. We do recommend, that you consider getting your own yoga mat once you decide to practice regularly.
What are the benefits of practicing yoga?
Yoga 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!
I have been a yoga student/teacher for quite a few years now. How do I keep learning and improving?
After a few years of doing yoga, a student begins the most rewarding time to deepen their practice and knowledge. In order to achieve this, there are three main avenues we recommend: Sadhana, Karma Yoga and Teacher Training. Sadhana is your own personal daily spiritual practice. Intensify your practice with more asanas, pranayama, meditation, etc. every day, even if for 20 minutes. Karma Yoga: serve. Selfless service helps remove inner blocks and impurities – mainly selfishness – which are obstacles to our spiritual evolution. Please review the yoga/humanitarian retreats also offered on our website. Teacher Training is for those who want to expand their yoga knowledge as well as potentially teach in the future.
TIPS
- Remember that your body is different from every one else’s! Listen to your body. Every day your body will have a different endurance level and your yoga practice will help to increase your awareness of this. Never be afraid or embarrassed to come out of a posture before others do or before being told to do so by the instructor if you are feeling pain or discomfort.
- Be sure to inform the instructor of any serious health conditions such as neck, back or joint injuries, heart disease, high blood pressure, recent surgery and/or pregnancy.
- Learn to distinguish between pain and sensation. Pain is a signal that you need to stop. Sensation is a new awakening from an unfamiliar movement. Regular practice of yoga helps to develop awareness of the “edge” between challenge and unhealthy struggle.
- Women, please be aware that certain postures such as inversions (headstands, shoulder stands, etc.) are best avoided during menstruation–especially during heavy flow days. It is important that pregnant women notify the instructor for special guidelines.
- Please try to come to class on time. Classes are structured with a beginning, a progression of postures and a very important final relaxation time. If you do find yourself coming in to class late, please enter the room quietly and find your space. If you know you will have to leave early, please give yourself at least five minutes in final relaxation pose (savasana) before leaving.
- Lastly, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, stay in the present moment with your yoga practice–this will magically carry over into your daily life creating clarity, balance and joy for yourself and for others you come in contact with.
For more detailed information on other areas of yoga, below is a list of topics and links: