What is yoga?

Yoga literally means “union.” This can be interpreted as union between many things such as: body, mind, and spirit; yourself and the divine; yourself and family or community, etc… Yoga is an ancient art based on a harmonizing system of development for the body, mind, and spirit. There are 8 limbs, or levels of yoga, only one of them being asana, or the physical postures. Because of its depth, the continued practice of yoga can lead you to a sense of peace and well-being, and a feeling of being one with your environment. The consistent practice of yoga enhances the body’s strength and flexibility. It also improves the functioning of the respiratory, circulatory, digestive, and hormonal systems. Yoga brings about emotional stability, clarity of mind, and awareness of body. Get ready…yoga will open your heart and blow your mind!

What if I am not flexible? Can I still do yoga?

The pre-requisite to yoga is a flexible mind, not a flexible body. My purpose in teaching is to modify each pose, creating accessibility so that you can receive the benefit of each pose. We will never sacrifice physical comfort or health in order to "do" a particular pose. All variations and modifications have specific benefits to each body and personality type. They can be difficult to learn in a large class setting, which is why I AM SAM YOGA could be advantageous to you. In a skilled and gentle way, I will guide beginners, or those who face challenges with flexibility into a reasonable, achievable program, which will pave the way to a lifetime of injury-free practice.

Why choose I AM SAM YOGA? Can't I get the same benefits from a gym or studio class?

This one-on-one service is created to give personalized attention and therapeutic care to suit your individual needs. Your program will specifically address things like weight loss, flexibility, sports training, depression, anxiety, arthritis, cardiac and respiratory function, balance deficits, pain disorders, and more, depending on your needs. My professional experience in physical therapy, and extensive knowledge of the human body contribute immensely to your safety and quality of care. The unique combination of yoga and rehabilitation will give you an experience far beyond a class setting.

I am currently injured or recovering from an injury. Can I still come to yoga?

ABSOLUTELY! This is the essence of why I do what I do, my "sweet spot." There are a number of yoga postures that not only can be done, but SHOULD be prescribed for certain injuries. There are also many modifications for activities, or substitutions altogether that you will learn. In some cases, particularly chronic pain, the mind and emotions play a huge role in our physical manifestations. Certain meditation, relaxation, and breathing techniques can help shift the mind to a more positive place, and prepare our bodies for new therapeutic activities. As a physical therapist, I have the knowledge, skills, and safety awareness to assist you through yoga in your journey to wellness!

What will my sessions be like?

Your first session will be longer, and include a thorough interview and examination of your body. We will discuss your medical history, lifestyle, goals, etc. We, together, will come up with reasonable, achievable goals. Your sessions thereafter may include one or many of the following: stretching postures, strengthening postures, balance postures, flow sequences for cardiovascular exercise, breathing exercises, meditation techniques, relaxation techniques, manual stretching of joints and muscles, and partner yoga postures. Please contact me with further questions.

I have a busy schedule. Can you accommodate that?

Yes, my times and days are flexible. They vary each day, and range anywhere from 6am to 9pm, 7 days/week.

Do you teach classes at a studio?

Yes, please see the studio schedule link at the top of the page.