What is yoga?
The word “yoga” comes to us from Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language. It means “yoke” or “union”, and our practice of yoga unites the body, mind and spirit. In contemporary terms, yoga includes a reinforcement of personal ethics, physical practice (asana), breath work (pranayama), and meditation to create a deeper connection with one self.
Why have a regular yoga and meditation practice?
A regular yoga practice integrates the mind, body, and spirit in a way that we gain a deeper connection to our self. It teaches us that everything we do has an impact on our health and our lives. A yoga and meditation practice can physically reduce stress, lower high blood pressure, maintain strength and mobility, and calm the mind. It’s also a lot of fun to move and breathe and you’ll feel better overall for the time you spend on your mat.
What are the benefits of yoga and meditation in the workplace?
It give the employees a chance to reset their focusIt creates an overall increase in good health of employees
Yoga and wellness programs increase the satisfaction of employees’ time at the company and encourages less turn-over
Greater focus creates better productivity
Classes create a sense of community/team building
How does yoga fit into the work day?
There are many ways to fit yoga into your work day. At Bloom Yoga we strive to create the perfect yoga and meditation practice to fit your employees’ needs. This may be as simple as a guided meditation, a gentle restorative practice, or a flow yoga class. Classes are scheduled to accommodate your work day, and may be scheduled morning, noon, or immediately after working hours.
If employees have never done yoga, are they allowed to attend these yoga classes?
All levels of student are welcome in Bloom Yoga classes, from beginners to the more seasoned yogi. We teach these classes as mixed-level classes, meaning that we guide the class through the poses, and offer modifications to suit the level of each student. We believe in safe alignment of bodies as well as hands-on adjustments to help students find the pose in their bodies. These adjustments are intended to support and to grow each student’s individual practice. We recommend that students check with their physician before beginning any exercise program.
What types of yoga classes are available?
Bloom Yoga teachers are available to teach a variety of styles of yoga. We focus on meditation, gentle restorative (supported poses), flow yoga (connecting breath and movement), and prenatal flow yoga.
How long are classes? How many times a week?
Classes are tailored to meet your employees’ needs and can range from a 30 minute guided meditation practice to 60-90 minute gentle restorative or flow classes. The number of times per week is up to you as a company to decide what is best for your employees and their overall wellness. As we design a yoga and meditation plan for your company, we will be happy to make recommendations about duration of classes and times per week.
What does the company/employees need to provide?
A space should be provided by the company for a regular class. The room should be relatively distraction-free ( a room with a door is preferable) and have plenty of open space where students can place their mats. Non-carpeted or commercial carpeting is acceptable.
It is recommended that all students bring their own yoga mats to class. For smaller classes (10 students or less) we can provide additional props (if needed) such as blankets, blocks, and straps. For larger classes (10 students or more) as students advance, the company may want to make a small wellness investment in yoga props such as blankets, blocks, and straps.
What should students wear?
Students should wear comfortable clothing that allows for movement, including sitting cross-legged on the floor and well as standing poses, and moving between standing and floor poses. Shoes are not worn in yoga, so students can plan to be barefoot. A recommendation is to wear what you might wear to the gym to workout.