Choose a Class

First you will want to choose a class to attend. Visit the Classes page to view the schedule and get class descriptions. First time students will have a great experience in either the “Yoga for All” or “Gentle Yoga” classes. All of our classes are taught on Zoom.us, so make sure you have access to that platform. We would prefer that you join classes using the camera in your device so that we can easily see you and interact with you.

Questions

Once you have chosen a class, you should check out the FAQ section below to learn the answers to the most commonly asked questions about participating in our yoga classes. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to Contact Us.

Register

Fill in the Registration form below so we will have a bit of information about you. Please do this before your first class so your instructor will be aware of any physical concerns you have.

Practice with us

Now you’re ready to take your first class. It may be be best if you call ahead, (407) 319-4442, so we can get the class link to you. Alternatively, you can login using the Meeting ID and Password on the Classes page. Simply arrive at class a few minutes before start time. Let your teacher know that you are new to the studio or to yoga. Please tell the teacher if you are pregnant. Also mention if you have serious health problems such as high blood pressure or if you have an injury.

Since all our classes are Online Zoom Classes, the instructors must be able to see you and watch you as you practice. This is for your safety and insure you are doing the practice correctly and getting the most benefit. Therefore we require your camera must be on so the instructor can see and guide you. If turning on your camera is not acceptable to you; very politely you cannot be a student of ours. Hope you understand this is for your safety and ours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: I am not very flexible. Can anybody do yoga?

Yes, everyone can practice yoga regardless of current fitness level, flexibility, or limitations due to medical conditions or injuries. Beginners need not worry about being lost in our classes: detailed instructions are given, and the small class sizes allow the instructors to watch their students carefully and monitor their progress, making suggestions for modifications of the exercises as needed. At Still Lake Yoga, we have men and women of all ages, shapes, sizes, and strengths practicing together and yet individually meeting their own body’s needs. Even though we practice online, our students draw inspiration and support from each other, and a spirit of inclusiveness pervades the center. Classes are scheduled with enough time between them so that you can always feel free to stay online after class to ask questions about your practice.

Question: What should I wear to class?

All students should wear comfortable and simple clothing. We don’t dress up! Please don’t feel you need to buy special yoga wear, and in keeping with the spirit of yoga, stay modest in dress even though you are in your own home. We practice in bare feet. No shoes, no socks.

Men usually wear exercise or sweat pants or loose cotton pants elasticized at the waist. Belts or pants with zippers and buttons will restrict movement and be uncomfortable. Tops can be tee shirts or tanks. Women generally wear loose elasticized pants, leggings, or any sports pants. Tops may be tee shirts (not too big or loose unless layered over other tops), tank tops, etc. In cooler weather you may wish to layer (for example a sweat shirt over a tee). We suggest that you remove jewelry, watches, etc. before class begins and that you silence your phone. These items can be distracting and interfere with your focus on the subtleties of your experience of your body.

Question: What do I need to practice?

If you have a yoga sticky mat, use that. (A brand new mat may need to be aired out if you notice a strong plastic smell.) If you don't have a mat, try to practice on a surface that is not slippery. We advise that regular students get their own mat. If you drink water when you exercise, you might want to drink it after class. The internal heating that occurs during asana class is cleansing for the body and is a beneficial part of the entire process. If you drink immediately after class, room temperature liquids are great. Very cold beverages can be shocking to the system. We sometimes use a strap to help us stretch, a folded blanket to help us sit cross-legged, and blocks, cushions or a bolster. If you do not have these items, you can use an old tie or long belt and a small pillow or cushion.

Question: Is there special etiquette for yoga class?

Yes. Please be on time. Arrive 5 -10 minutes before class. Enter quietly: students may already be relaxing and quieting the mind in preparation for class. Keep conversations about outside events to a minimum at this time. (You can always chat with friends after class if you desire.) Please turn off cell phones and other such devices. Gum is a choking hazard as well as an impediment to tuning in to the natural rhythms of your body, so please do not chew gum during yoga class. At the start of class, all students mute their microphones. That keeps sounds in your home from interrupting the flow of the class. You may always unmute yourself if you have a question.

Question: How do I prepare for yoga class?

It is best to practice yoga on an empty stomach: this means about 4 hours after a regular meal or 2 hours after a light snack. Don’t drink a huge amount of liquid directly before class. These are guidelines only. Be sensible. If you have special medical circumstances that require you to eat at certain times etc., honor that. You may like to discuss this situation with your teacher or a medical professional.

Question: Can I bring my child to class with me?

If you have a teenage child or very mature preteen who is interested in participating in the class you may include him or her. We suggest that you first try a class yourself and then talk with your child to decide if the class would be appropriate and enjoyable. Yoga can be a great way to spend time together! However, try not to allow your focus to shift to your child during class. Let your child experience the class in his or her own way. The instructor will give extra guidance if necessary. Your shared interest in yoga can encourage further practice as well as fun, active play. Class ends with a period of relaxation (about 10 minutes) and children must be able to remain still and quiet for this time so other students can relax completely. (Children pay the student rate.

Question: I have pets. Is it okay for them to be in the same room where I am practicing?

Each person has a different relationship with and expectation of their pets. If you have a well-behaved dog who will sit or lie quietly while you practice, you may be able to allow them in the room. Cats frequently want to join in when they see you on the floor and that can be distracting to you. You will need to determine the best course of action with your pets. It is best that you arrange a situation that will minimize interruptions to your concentrated focus.

Question: Is yoga a religion?

No, yoga is a holistic system for wellness. People of all faiths and creeds practice yoga. People with no religious affiliation also practice and enjoy yoga. We warmly welcome all people to practice with us at Still Lake Yoga virtual studio. Consistent yoga practice, with its emphasis on introspection, quietness, inner balance, and peace, does tend to increase one’s existing spiritual tendencies and ability to pray with attention. It can lead to deeper devotional feelings. Of course, these feelings will be expressed through whatever religious tradition you connect with. The moral precepts of traditional yoga -such as the practice of non-harming and compassion, non-coveting, and truthfulness- are precepts that all major religions have in common. Feel free to question your teacher further about this issue.

New Students