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Breathe In, Breathe Out
The Art of Yoga By Greg Downs
Most teachers believe yoga has its roots in the Hindu faith. Some newcomers, aware of the spiritual writings of some yoga masters, are fearful that taking yoga may conflict with their own religious beliefs. Both Hotep and Kout, however, say yoga is compatible with virtually all faiths and philosophies. "It's not a religion," says Kout. "It's a complement to anything else that you may do in your life." While some advanced classes may cover meditation and philosophy, beginning classes usually focus on breathing and stretching. Over yoga's 5,000-year history, many different styles have evolved. Both Hotep and Kout say beginners don't need to worry too much about selecting a particular style. "It's like going to a therapist," says Kout. "Either you resonate with that particular person or you don't. Just trust your own feelings."
Hotep advises beginners to make sure the teacher works with your limitations. "I don't have a teaching style," says Hotep. "I conform my style to my students."
Yoga need not be expensive. Fees usually range from about $8 per class at larger health clubs to $20 at some specialized studios. Both teachers recommend attending at least one class per week to make sure you aren't developing bad habits. Students usually wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Most practitioners purchase inexpensive mats that are available through health clubs and studios.
Even though yoga is an improbably complex art -- with as many as 840,000 possible positions -- students don't need to abandon all their other commitments before they get started. "It's like playing the piano," says Kout. "First you learn scales. You have to practice and build incrementally so you can learn more. Five minutes a day every day will mean more than spending huge blocks of time every once in a while."
