There are two ways to start practicing at Castro Valley Yoga

1. Take the Intro Class - Sundays 8:30-10:00am
This class is designed to give beginning students the foundation they need to feel comfortable in any level 1 or multi-level class. This is an ongoing class so there is no need to register in advance, or to commit to attending on specific dates. Just show up at your convenience.

2. Simply come to any Level 1 class on the schedule
Level 1 is a beginning level regardless of class title. Almost anyone would do fine in any level 1 class listed. Teachers offer modifications of poses for multi-level classes.

With either option, your second class is free!


For all classes:
Wear loose or stretchy clothes and dress in layers.
We provide mats and other props you may need.
Do not eat for at least 1 hour prior to class.
Yoga is practiced barefoot.
Plan on arriving 10-15 minutes before class to sign in with the teacher.


Frequently Asked Questions about Yoga:

• What is yoga? The best way to describe yoga is probably to say that it is a way of life. The yoga we are most familiar with in the West is called "Hatha Yoga," or the "yoga of movement." However, there are seven other yogic pathways, all of which deal primarily with the spiritual, emotional, and mental realms. Yoga originated in India over 5,000 years ago (a lot longer than any fitness trend!). The word "yoga" means "union," or, simply put, the union of mind, body, and spirit. All of the eight yogic paths have this union as their goal.
  


• Is yoga a religion? No. Yoga is not a religion. It has no bible or other doctrine that its students follow. Instead, it is a practical system for healthy living, which includes movement, diet, and a set of ethical principles (such as non-violence, and self-restraint, for example).
  


• Must I be fit or flexible to practice yoga? No. Castro Valley Yoga offers classes for all ages, levels of fitness and flexibility. Secondly, yoga is NOT a competitive sport! Instead, yoga helps us to look at our bodies and ourselves from the inside out. Our studio has no mirrors. We encourage you not to compare yourself to the student next to you. Yoga is experiential . . . it is not a performance art. So, whoever you are, however old you are, however long it has been since you stretched or moved, yoga is for YOU!
  


• Do I need any past yoga experience to attend class? No. You can try any class with level 1 listed on our schedule. If you have injuries we recommend telling the teacher before class in case you need special instructions. And remember, your second class is free!
  


• I have a previous injury. Can I still try yoga? Yes! If you suffer from back or neck pain, repetitive stress injuries (like carpal tunnel syndrome), arthritis, bursitis, or osteoporosis, you can not only try yoga, you're bound to benefit from it. Just see your instructor at the beginning of class to discuss your individual health circumstances.

  Please note: If you suffer from any severe or unusual medical conditions (such as heart disease, high blood pressure, a previous head/neurological injury, a high-risk pregnancy, etc.), it is your responsibility to get permission from your personal physician before embarking on any new exercise program. Again, please inform your instructor of any and all individual health concerns before class.



• What should I wear/bring to class? First off, come ready to practice in bare feet. This is the traditional (and safest) way to practice. The sticky mats we use in class (you can bring your own or use the ones we provide) are further insurance that you won't slip while you practice. Wear loose or stretchy clothing. Wear light layers if you get cold easily.
  

If you have any further questions, please click here to send us email, or call the studio any time.