FAQ

WHY YOGA AND SOUND?

«Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.» — The Bhagavad Gita

Yoga and sound are transformative practices, supported by scientific research, that foster greater awareness, healing, and well-being. These practices offer a holistic approach, working from the outer aspects of your being to the deeper layers of self, in alignment with the 8 Limbs of Yoga.

Before stepping onto the mat, the Yamas and Niyamas can serve as a compass for mindful living. The Yamas, like Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satya (truthfulness), guide our relationships with others, while the Niyamas, such as Santosha (contentment) and Svadhyaya (self-study), promote inner peace and self-awareness. These ethical principles create a strong foundation for personal growth, preparing us for a deeper practice.

Scientific studies show that yoga enhances mental clarity and emotional balance by reducing stress, improving brain function, and fostering emotional resilience. Asanas increase body awareness, strength, and posture, while pranayama improves respiration, boosts vitality, and regulates the nervous system. Practices like pratyahara and concentration support focus and relaxation, which are linked to improved cognitive performance. Meditation, supported by research, promotes emotional stability, inner peace, and a profound sense of oneness.

Yoga nurtures not only the nervous, endocrine, digestive, cardiovascular, and skeletal systems, but also works to support every system of the body. While the benefits to these systems may take time to unfold fully, the calming effects on the nervous system and the energizing boost to the endocrine system, for example, can often be felt immediately after a practice. These physical and emotional benefits are just some of the ways yoga supports your overall health and vitality.

Sound complements yoga by amplifying relaxation, emotional healing, and mental clarity, helping you connect deeper with yourself. Together, yoga and sound provide a comprehensive, scientifically-supported path to lasting peace, vitality, and self-discovery.

HOW TO START YOGA?

The best way is to find a class that prioritizes alignment, safety, and listening to your body. Yoga is about being present with yourself, and starting with a solid foundation is essential.

With so many online resources available, it's tempting to dive in, but they often lack the personal guidance you need, especially when it comes to alignment and safety. Without proper instruction, you risk injury. Just like any new physical activity, yoga requires learning how to move safely and understanding your body’s limits.

Here are some tips for starting your practice:

Listen to your body: Yoga should never cause pain. Discomfort or stretching is normal, but pain means you should stop or adjust.
Start with alignment: Proper alignment is key to preventing injuries. Find classes or resources that emphasize this.
Consult a health professional: If you have injuries or health concerns, it’s always best to check with a doctor before starting.
Progress gradually: Yoga is a practice of steady growth. Take your time and let your body adapt.

Yoga is also a lifelong journey, and it doesn’t require you to understand everything all at once. The key is to stay curious, take the first step, and be open to learning as you go. Whether it’s simply sitting on the mat and taking a deep breath, or studying the philosophy behind the practice, yoga is about exploring at your own pace.

Remember, yoga is both everything and nothing—it can be as simple as a breath or as profound as ancient teachings. Take it one step at a time, stay curious, and enjoy the journey.

WHAT IS THE CORE FOCUS IN YOUR YOGA TEACHING?

To create a supportive atmosphere, I often use a "slow flow" method, allowing time to connect with your body and breath. Props are available to help you adapt your practice to your needs, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.

Yoga encompasses more than physical movement; it includes meditation and mindfulness. I aim to foster a space where you can express emotions that arise during practice.

Take your time exploring your yoga journey, keeping it safe, sustainable, and enjoyable!

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE MANY YOGA STYLES?

With so many yoga styles available—such as Power, Broga, Ashtanga, Yin, Bikram, Heated, Restorative, Kundalini, Vinyasa, Flow, and Hatha—it’s completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. Let’s break it down: Yoga has its roots in traditional India and has evolved over time, resulting in a diverse array of adaptations and practices.

Some styles focus more on the physical aspects, while others emphasize mental clarity or interpersonal connections, often blending these elements together. Regardless of the style, the shared goal is to harmonize body, mind, and spirit, encouraging a more conscious and integrated way of living. The word "yoga" comes from Sanskrit, meaning "to join" or "to unite." Ultimately, the essence of yoga is about creating a connection—whether that’s within ourselves or with the world around us.

If you’re unsure where to start, consider exploring a few different styles to see which resonates with you. Everyone’s journey is unique, and finding the right fit can take time. Trust your instincts, and remember that yoga is a personal experience meant to support you on your path.

WHAT STYLES OF YOGA DO YOU TEACH?

I am certified in Vinyasa Yoga and have completed a 50-hour Yin Yoga training, which serves as the foundation of my teaching approach. I see yoga as a versatile toolbox, offering valuable tools like yoga poses and sequences (Asana), breathing exercises (Pranayama), and meditation. Alongside these, I emphasize the significance of cultivating a positive mindset towards ourselves and others (Yama & Niyama) and developing sensory awareness (Pratyahara), among other aspects. I strive to integrate these diverse elements into my classes to create a well-rounded yoga experience.

Vinyasa Yoga

In Vinyasa Yoga, we embrace the dynamic qualities associated with Yang energy. This style encompasses various forms, including Ashtanga and Power Yoga, all characterized by a fluid, breath-led flow of movement. The term "Vinyasa" itself means "connection," emphasizing the harmony between movement and breath. A central aspect of this practice is Ujjayi Pranayama, a breathing technique that involves a gentle constriction in the throat, producing a soothing sound reminiscent of ocean waves. Throughout our practice, we aim to maintain a consistent rhythm in the length and intensity of our breath.

Yin Yoga

I have completed a 50-hour training in Yin Yoga and am eager to deepen my understanding through further education in this style. Yin Yoga offers a beautiful balance to the more active styles by inviting us to explore the softer, more introspective qualities of Yin energy. This slower, quiet practice focuses on holding poses for several minutes—typically between 3 to 7 minutes—in seated or lying positions. The goal is to relax the muscles in targeted areas while experiencing a mild form of stress, distinguishing it from Restorative Yoga, which is usually more about complete relaxation.

The essence of Yin Yoga lies in deepening our self-awareness on both physical and emotional levels. As we hold poses, we learn to reassess the level of stress we feel, allowing us to consider whether we’re experiencing tension or compression. This ongoing awareness helps us decide whether to increase, maintain, or decrease our range of motion, fostering a mindful approach to our practice.

WHAT LEVEL DO YOU TEACH?

I aim to create a welcoming environment for those new to yoga. My focus is on sharing foundational skills and understanding, with the hope of making the practice accessible and enjoyable for everyone as they embark on their journey.

IN WHAT LANGUAGE DO YOU TEACH?

I offer classes in Swiss German, German, and English, ensuring that everyone can connect and engage in a language they feel comfortable with.