Zen FAQ

How can I find time for yoga when my job takes up all my time? 
Prioritize self-care by scheduling yoga sessions as non-negotiable appointments. 
Set boundaries with work to create space for self-care activities.
By making yoga a priority and being flexible with your practice, you can find ways to reap its benefits despite a busy work schedule.

How can I overcome my procrastination about attending yoga sessions, despite being aware of the numerous benefits?

Establish a regular routine for attending sessions.

Find an accountability partner or join a session for support.

Focus on the immediate benefits of yoga to overcome procrastination.

Reward yourself for consistent attendance. 
Address any barriers or obstacles hindering your attendance.

Why am I prioritizing family gatherings, socializing, attending functions, spending hours on the phone and watching movies, instead of practicing yoga, despite my enthusiasm for it? 
Distraction 
Engaging in social activities provides immediate gratification and distracts from the commitment required for yoga practice. 

Habit 
Established routines of spending time with family and friends may overshadow the habit of practicing yoga. 

Instant Gratification 
Activities like attending functions offer immediate enjoyment compared to the gradual benefits of yoga.

Stress Relief 
Socializing on the phone and watching movies may serve as outlets for stress relief, offering temporary relaxation. 

Perception of Importance 
Social activities may be perceived as more important or enjoyable, leading to prioritization over yoga practice.

Why should I practice yoga if I'm already in good shape and don't have health problems? 
Yoga enhances flexibility, strength, and muscle tone, even for those already in good shape. 
It promotes mental well-being and fosters a deeper mind-body connection, benefiting overall quality of life. 
Yoga aids in injury prevention and encourages holistic wellness. 
Embracing yoga as part of a healthy lifestyle supports current well-being and promotes longevity and healthy aging in the long run. 

Should I let my friends' reluctance to attend yoga deter me from going as well? 
While it's natural to feel disheartened if friends aren't keen on joining you for yoga, your decision to practice should reflect your own motivations. 
Consider the personal benefits you gain from yoga, like physical health and stress reduction. Don't let your friends' reluctance deter you. 
If you're passionate about yoga, attend sessions solo or seek out a supportive community. Your well-being should take precedence over others' preferences.

My friends discourage me from attending yoga sessions, suggesting that walking is a better alternative. Is this true? 
Yoga offers unique advantages like improved flexibility, strength, balance, and stress reduction, which walking alone may not fully provide.
Moreover, yoga incorporates mindfulness and breathwork practices that enhance mental well-being. 
If you appreciate yoga's holistic approach to health and wellness, don't let your friends' views discourage you. 

How can I gain the confidence to attend yoga sessions alone? 
The key is to focus on yourself.  
After your first session, you'll likely realize that you can thrive independently. 
While it might take a few sessions to feel completely at ease, you'll eventually find solace in the community of individuals who share your passion for yoga and well-being.

Why did I experience severe body pain after my first yoga session? 
Severe body pain after yoga can be caused by pushing too hard or attempting poses beyond one's ability. 
Inadequate guidance from the instructor on performing poses within one's capacity can contribute to discomfort and injury. 
Lack of instruction on modifications tailored to individual limitations may exacerbate discomfort. 
Consider investing in a quality yoga mat for adequate cushioning and support. 
Distinguishing between beneficial stretching and harmful pain is crucial. 

I now have a fear of yoga due to a previous bad experience. How can I overcome this fear so that I can continue with yoga?

Shared Experience

Fear is a common experience in yoga, shared by many individuals. 
 

Pause and Explore

Taking a break after a negative experience is a valid and important step.

 

Safety-Centric Environment

Look for sessions or instructors that prioritize safety measures to alleviate fear.

 

Personalized Support

Choose instructors who offer tailored adjustments to address individual needs and concerns.

 

Overcoming Fear

Don't let fear hinder your yoga journey; finding a practical instructor can help dispel fear naturally.

My yoga instructor frequently demonstrates advanced yoga poses such as headstands and deep bends, which I find intimidating. What might be the reason for this? 
Demonstrating challenging poses can motivate students to set goals and improve their practice. 
However, frequent display of advanced poses may be driven by the instructor's ego, aiming to showcase their expertise and flexibility. 
The instructor might use advanced poses to discourage clients from questioning their abilities. 
If uncomfortable with this approach, it's advisable to consider discontinuing sessions with such instructors. 
A skilled instructor values modifying poses to suit all clients' needs and abilities.

How can I subtly determine if my yoga instructor is qualified? 
Observation  
Pay attention to their teaching style during session, noting if they provide clear instructions and demonstrate proper alignment in poses.

Certifications 
Look for displayed qualifications or certifications, which signify recognized training and expertise. 

Experience 
Casually inquire about their teaching background, asking about their training or how long they've been instructing yoga. Experienced instructors often bring a depth of knowledge and skill to their sessions.

Feedback 
Seek reviews or recommendations from other clients or friends who have attended sessions with the same instructor. Positive feedback can indicate a competent and effective teacher.

Professionalism 
Observe their professionalism in how they interact with clients and address inquiries or concerns. A respectful and responsive demeanor is indicative of a qualified instructor. 

I love yoga, but I struggle to wake up in the morning and tend to be laid back about joining sessions. Any suggestions? 
Finding consistency in your yoga practice begins with establishing a disciplined routine. Start by setting a regular sleep schedule to ensure you get enough rest and can wake up feeling refreshed. Consider incorporating relaxation techniques before bed to promote better sleep quality. 

Additionally, set clear goals for your yoga practice and remind yourself of the benefits it brings to your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Visualize how achieving these goals will enhance your life, motivating you to prioritize your practice.

Remember, yoga is a journey of self-discovery and growth, and every step you take towards it is a step towards greater vitality and inner peace.

I have not practiced yoga before. Can I still join your Zen Yoga sessions? 
Absolutely! At Nava's Zen, we welcome practitioners of all levels, including beginners. Our sessions are designed to accommodate individuals at every stage of their yoga journey. We prioritize your comfort and well-being, emphasizing that yoga is a personal practice free from comparison or pressure to perform.

It's important to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard, as this can lead to injuries. We encourage all participants to approach their practice with mindfulness and respect for their own limits.

Please note that while we provide guidance and support, individuals are ultimately responsible for their own practice and well-being.

I'm in my late thirties. Can I still practice yoga without having prior experience? 
Why not? Yoga is inclusive of all ages and backgrounds. At Nava's Zen, we welcome practitioners of all ages, starting from 12 years and above, regardless of gender. Our sessions are designed to be accessible and accommodating for individuals of any experience level.

Whether you're new to yoga or have been practicing for years, our instructors will provide guidance and support to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

I am significantly overweight and struggle with walking. Can I still participate in your yoga sessions? 
Nobody said you can’t. Yoga is a practice that welcomes individuals of all shapes, sizes, and fitness levels. Regardless of your current physical condition, yoga offers a gentle and supportive environment for personal growth and healing. With consistent practice, you'll gradually build strength, flexibility, and mobility, which can greatly benefit your overall well-being.

Our instructors are trained to provide modifications and adjustments to accommodate diverse needs, ensuring that everyone can participate safely and comfortably.

Your willingness to engage in yoga is the most important factor, and we're here to support you every step of the way on your journey to better health.

What should I do if knee pain makes me hesitant to practice yoga?

Knee pain is a common issue, especially for those who are overweight, as the knees may struggle to support excess weight. To address this, consider wearing knee support such as knee cap protectors, knee braces, or knee pads during yoga sessions. Additionally, incorporating yoga into a weight loss regimen along with dietary adjustments can gradually alleviate knee pain.

However, if you experience severe knee pain or are unsure about using knee support, it's essential to consult with your doctor before making any decisions. This ensures you receive personalized guidance and appropriate recommendations for managing your knee pain effectively.

When are the best times for yoga sessions? 
We recommend early morning sessions for an energizing start to your day, which sets a positive tone for the hours ahead. The tranquility and focus achieved during morning practice often lead to a sense of zen bliss that permeates throughout the day.

However, for those with demanding work schedules, evening sessions provide an excellent opportunity to unwind, release stress, and rejuvenate mind and body after a long day's work.

What should I wear for my yoga session? 
We recommend wearing comfortable outfit (more at Yoga Outfits)that allows for ease of movement. In our Malaysian climate, cotton clothing is ideal as it absorbs sweat effectively. For both men and women, we suggest yoga leggings or track bottoms paired with collarless t-shirts.

It's important to choose clothing that fits well and won't cause discomfort during practice. Avoid oversized garments that may shift during yoga poses, as well as overly tight clothing that may restrict movement.

Should I wear shoes for yoga sessions? 
Yoga is traditionally practiced barefoot to promote connection with the ground and enhance balance. However, if you prefer to have some protection for your feet, you may consider wearing specially made yoga socks. These socks provide grip and stability without compromising the benefits of practicing barefoot.

Is tying up hair a must for yoga practice? 
While it's not mandatory, we highly recommend tying up your hair during yoga sessions. Stray hair strands can be distracting and may cause discomfort if they fall onto your face or body during practice.

By securing your hair, you can minimize distractions and fully immerse yourself in the yoga experience.

Can I wear jewelry during yoga practice? 
While it's ultimately your decision, we advise against wearing jewelry that may cause discomfort or pose a risk of injury during yoga sessions. Items like long dangling earrings, necklaces, or rings can get in the way and may cause inconvenience or even injury. We recommend removing jewelry before practicing yoga to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

How long before a yoga session should I eat? 
It's recommended to refrain from eating a full meal within two hours of your yoga session. This helps prevent discomfort and potential health issues during your practice. Light snacks like a banana, some biscuits, or a cup of hot beverage are suitable options if you need a light energy boost before your session.

Can I drink water during yoga sessions?   
While it's generally recommended to stay hydrated, it's best to avoid drinking large amounts of water during yoga sessions. Small sips are permissible if you're feeling exceptionally thirsty, but be cautious, as consuming too much water can lead to discomfort, particularly during inverted poses.

What sort of yoga mat should I invest in? 
It's advisable to invest in a thicker yoga mat, as it provides better protection for your body during practice. Look for mats with non-slip surfaces to prevent accidents, especially when sweating. Additionally, ensure that your mat is cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of germs.

If necessary, give it a thorough cleaning and allow it to dry in a cool, well-ventilated area.

I've been attending your sessions for two months now, but I'm still struggling with the yoga poses and haven't noticed much improvement in my strength, stamina, toning, and flexibility. Why is that? 
Yoga is a journey that unfolds at its own pace, and progress varies from person to person. Consistency is key, and it's important to trust the process. Our instructors are here to guide you through proper alignment and technique to prevent injuries and maximize your practice's effectiveness.

For optimal results, we recommend attending yoga sessions at least twice a week to deepen your practice and experience noticeable improvements over time.