Who’s practicing yoga, which class is right for you

WHAT’S YOUR YOGA?

Finding a class

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Cecile Domercq holds a pose during a pregnancy class at Stillwater Yoga in Midtown. About 16 million Americans now practice yoga,

• Aging, the economy send people to yoga studios

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Studios typically offer classes for beginners. Ask to observe a class. Most teachers and studios offer drop-in classes; some offer trial classes at a reduced rate. Classes at health clubs are often covered by membership fees. Consider trying different styles, teachers and studios to determine what’s most comfortable.

A yoga sampler

Some yoga classes and workshops offered across metro Atlanta:

• “Worrier to Warrior: Finding Your Strength in Uncertain Times” (Plum Tree Yoga in Roswell; www.plumtreeyoga.com)

• “Unstress for Life” (GRD Yoga and Meditation Center in Dunwoody; www.grdyoga.com)

• “Mommy and Me” yoga classes (Oh Baby Fitness, several locations; www.ohbabyfitness.com)

• “Yoga for the Stiff Guy” (Decatur Yoga & Pilates; www.decaturhotyoga.com)

• Hatha to hippie yoga, buff yoga, stone yoga and, soon, aerial yoga (Crunch Fitness; www.crunch.com)

A YOGA PRIMER

Namaste: At the end of a yoga class, most teachers bring their hands together, bow their head, and say, “namaste.” Students do the same. Namaste literally means “I bow to you” and is a sign of respect.

Karma class: A free yoga class. Many studios offer one from time to time. Decatur Yoga & Pilates offers one every Saturday afternoon. (Donations accepted).

Dahn yoga: A blend of yoga, tai chi and martial arts exercises

Bikram yoga: A series of 26 poses and breathing exercises repeated twice in a room heated to 105 degrees

Kundalini: Lots of chanting and repetitive movements such as waving arms that are designed to promote the release of dormant energy

Power yoga: One of the most physically (and spiritually) challenging forms. Poses can be advanced and held for long durations.

Hatha: Usually an eclectic blend of two or more styles. The studio can tell you if the class is vigorous or more meditative.

Source: Yoga Journal, Yoga Alliance

YOGA DEMOGRAPHICS

Who practices yoga?

• 72 percent women, 28 percent men

• 41 percent are 18-34 years old; 41 percent are 35-54; 18 percent are 55 and over.

• About half have practiced it two years or less.

Source: 2008 yoga study; Yoga Journal