Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ Yoga Classes in Nottingham
“I’m not flexible enough to do yoga”
Saying that you’re not flexible enough to do yoga is similar to saying that you’re too hungry to eat a meal! With the right support, pratising Yoga regularly can help you to build up your flexibility over time.
I always offer alternatives and variations in my yoga classes, so whether you’re a complete beginner or experienced yogi, everyone is welcome in a Frananda Yoga class!
Why is Yoga good for me?
Yoga has many benefits physically, mentally, emotionally, even spiritually in some cases! If you would like to learn more about the benefits of yoga, head over to my blog page, where I share my insight into the wonderful practice of all things yoga!
What should I wear and bring?
Clothing
Wear something comfortable, and easy to move around in. General fitness gear you would wear for any fitness activity is fine. Leggings and a close-fitted top are also great to avoid that “I’m being smothered by my top in downward-facing dog” effect!
Have a jumper, shawl or extra layer with you for Savasana (relaxation) at the end of class.
Avoid wearing socks when on your mat, as this could lead to injury through slipping. Even if you have grippy socks, the purpose of yoga is to bring you closer to the connection with nature and natural things, and this is best felt bare foot. It might feel a bit strange at first, but it’s an important first step towards embracing yourself and the physical body, in whatever shape or form it takes.
Avoid eating a heavy meal at least two hours before a yoga class.
Equipment
You will need a mat (See Can I borrow a mat for live classes?) below for more information. If you’re practising at home, you may also benefit from a pair of yoga bricks, a yoga strap and a bolster. However, if you’re just starting out and not sure you want to invest at the start, have read of my blog post on Creative alternatives to Yoga Props. I provide all props for in person Yoga classes; please bring your own mat.
Do I need to sign up in advance?
Yes, for online classes. You have the option of a Single Class pass (drop-in) or Block class passes (four or eight). You can book and pay for these here.
For in-person classes, signing up in advance is preferred. For last-minute drop-ins, I am able to register you at the studio if the class is not full and you can pay via card / contactless. Please make sure that you arrive about 15 minutes before the class begins, if this is the case. No Cash will be accepted.
For Yogis interested in private or corporate classes, please visit the private classes page or corporate classes page. You can also use the contact form at the bottom of the page, or email studio@franandayoga.com.
Can I borrow a mat for live classes? (or: Can you recommend a good yoga mat to buy?)
It is preferable, for your own comfort and health to bring your own yoga mat and props. If this is the case, please ensure your mat and props are clean before attending the class.
I have a few mats available for my in-person classes.
If you borrow a mat or equipment, you will be asked to wipe down the mat and props at the end of the class. I use natural cleaning products containing essential oils; please advise me if you have any allergies.
Yogamatters have a great selection of yoga mats and props which are reasonably priced and great for when starting out on your yoga journey. I recommend starting out with a mat, two yoga bricks and a yoga strap for your studio and online class practice (I will always show alternatives if you do not have access to props at home).
Sweaty Betty have a decent range of quality mats which are also eco-friendly. You can view the range online, or for Nottingham residents, pop into the store and say hello to Nicola and the team, who are such wonderful souls and will bend over backwards to help!
If you have been practising yoga for a while and looking for a longer term investment, then I personally recommend the Liforme yoga mats*. Although a bit pricey, they are worth it if you are looking to practice regularly. I have had mine for nearly six years and it hasn’t lost its grippiness or colour!
A yoga mat is important for your yoga practice, as it can help you to practice yoga postures safely. Some mats even have helpful alignment guides to help you position the body in a way that can support you in your practice further.
What should I expect when I arrive at a Frananda Yoga class?
Online Classes
Once you have booked and paid for your online class, you will be emailed a link to the class about 30 minutes before the class start time. Frananda Yoga uses Microsoft Teams for all online Yoga classes. You may wish to install Teams prior to your first class, but it is not essential. Please set yourself up in a quiet space, where you will not be disturbed, and make sure that I am able to see you and your mat. I will usually check in with everyone at the start of class. You will be placed on mute during the class, to eliminate any unnecessary background noise and to help you to settle into your yoga practice. If at any point you need to speak to me, you can privately message me on the chat function or feel free to unmute yourself if it is urgent. Please be prompt to arrive to the class.
To attend my classes, you will need a laptop with a webcam and microphone. If you wish to download Microsoft Teams (optional), you can do so here.
Live Classes
Please arrive no earlier than 10 minutes before the start of the class. This is to ensure that there is no overlap with any previous classes.
When you enter the studio, please adhere to markings on the floor as to where to place your mat, or wait for the teacher to direct you to a space. You can leave belongings in the main reception area at Tranquility, or if attending at Nicola Martin Dance Studios, you can leave items in the the changing rooms or at the sides of the room, ensuring that they are not blocking any doorways or are a trip hazard. Please note that items are left at the owner’s personal risk. Please double-check that phones are switched off or are on silent/do not disturb. There is nothing more disturbing than hearing a phone vibrating in someone’s bag so please ensure that the phone is not left on vibrate mode.
Once you’ve done all this, you can lie back on your mat, or stay in a comfortable seated position, take a few long, slow breaths and prepare the body for your yoga practice.
Why are there so many kinds of yoga, and which one is right for me?
Not sure of your Astanga from your Vinyasa? Generally speaking, most new yogis begin with Hatha yoga. Hatha literally means “force” and refers to yoga as a physical movement. There is a focus on the connection between the mind, body and breath. This style of yoga is slower than other styles (although if you like it slow, try out my relaxed or yin yoga classes!) but that doesn’t mean they are easier! Poses are generally held for between 3 – 5 breaths, with the idea of building familiarity, flexibility and strength uniformly across the body.
If you’re not sure or still have questions, continue reading this page for FAQ Yoga Classes in Nottingham. If you’re still not sure if a Yoga class is right for you, check the class description, or get in contact with the teacher prior to attending.
Ready to book a class? Head on over to my booking page.
Why is everyone chanting “Om”?
Om or Aum is believed to be the sound of the universe. Chanting aum is meant to bring the body, mind and breath into alignment, connecting you with the universe. Chanting aum, or a mantra (repeated word or phrase), can help to bring a calm focus to the mind, and is an excellent way to prepare for meditation.
I often begin and end my yoga classes with a quote, mantra or aum. You are free to choose whether you would like to join in or simply listen. I will usually explain the meaning of a mantra before or after chanting, but please feel free to come and speak to me at the end of a class if you have any further questions.
FAQ Yoga Classes in Nottingham
Is Yoga a Religion?
Yoga is not a religion. Yoga began in India around 5,000 years ago. It is believed that Patanjali created the Yoga sutras, a framework for yoga. It sets out the foundations for the practice of yoga, leading to spiritual growth and mastery over the physical and mental body. There are a lot of similarities between Yoga, Hinduism and Buddhism, however, you do not need to be religious or surrender your beliefs to practice yoga, nor should you be asked to convert your existing religion.
At Frananda Yoga, we are respectful of the diversity that life brings and accept and welcome people from all walks of life to our Yoga classes. All we ask for in return is that you are also respectful of diverging beliefs, and keep an open mind.
Will I be physically adjusted in a live class?
At Frananda Yoga, we believe that everybody’s body is different and that a yoga pose will look different from person to person. Adjustments are a great way to deepn your physical practice, or to assist you into new poses to try, or can even help you to relax (yes I’m talking about those amazing savasana head massages!)
I will provide physical adjustments during class only with your positive consent.
Where necessary, I will also offer verbal adjustments to help you deepen your practice and move safely in and out of the poses to help you enjoy your yoga fully.
Using verbal adjustments ensures that you can deepen the connection between where your body is in space and how the pose feels right for you.
I don’t like group classes, are there any other options for me?
Yes! There are private/ small group classes. See my Private Yoga Classes for further information.
I want to collaborate!
Great! I write articles, work with yoga studios, yoga suppliers and yoga teachers, too! Drop me an email on studio@franandayoga.com and let’s make some magic together!
Something else?
If I didn’t answer your question, feel free to contact me on studio@franandayoga.com or use the chat feature on this page.
You can also contact me here.
FAQ Yoga Classes in Nottingham.
*Contains an affiliate link, however I wouldn’t be affiliated if I didn’t first love the products myself 😉
