What to wear?
Like any class that you might take at the gym, you'll want to wear comfortable (but not too baggy) clothes that you can move in like sweats, T-shirts, yoga pants, etc. We recommend that you wear layers, since your body may warm up considerably during your yoga practice, and cool down during the relaxation phase of class. While halter tops, leotards and leggings are also appropriate, we ask that you consider modesty when dressing for yoga, in respect for your fellow students. Leave your jeans, belts or excessive jewelry at home, since these will restrict your movement and simply be a distraction. If you are coming from work before class, you're welcome to change into more comfortable clothes in our changing area or bathroom in the YogaSpace shop/lounge (across the landing from the studio).

What to bring?
YogaSpace is outfitted with mats, blocks, blankets, pillows and straps for your use... so initially, you don't need to bring a thing! Some students prefer to have their own mat, and you're certainly welcome to bring your own if you have one. We also have mats, blocks, straps and yoga clothing for purchase before and after class in our yoga shop. Mostly, we invite you to bring a open mind and an attitude of curiosity!

What to eat?
Simply put, yoga on a full stomach does not feel good! We recommend that you refrain from eating a major meal before class. We know this is sometimes a challenge, particularly for the evening classes that may fall after your typical dinner time. In this case, try to eat a hearty, late lunch, or simply have a light snack before class (like a piece of fruit, yogurt, etc.) to hold you over until after your yoga practice.

What should I do when I arrive?
Please arrive about 5-10 minutes before a class is scheduled to start. This will give you time to sign-in and pay in the shop/lounge, meet the teacher and get settled in the studio space. We ask that you please remove your shoes in the studio, and there are coat hooks for your belonging to the right of the door. It's also helpful to let your teacher know if you have any injuries or medical concerns, so he or she can help modify postures for you if necessary. Some students like to take a few minutes before class to transition out of their stressful day by quietly relaxing on their mats, so please socialize in the shop/lounge rather than the studio. Arriving late can be very disturbing to your fellow students, since many classes begin with a brief meditation. If you do need to come in after a class has begun, please do so as discretely as possible, and then wait until the end of class to sign-in and pay.

Studio Etiquette ?
Please turn off you cell phone before class. Please be considerate of your fellow students by not holding extraneous conversations during class, and moving quietly if you need to get up to go to the bathroom or leave for any reason. After class, please roll mats tightly, and put props away neatly. Don't forget to take all your belongings including mats, clothes, water bottles, jewelry, keys, etc. You'd be amazed at the collection in the Lost & Found.

What does it cost & how do I pay?
We offer a variety of payment options to meet your needs (see our rates). If you are dropping in for a class, the cost is $17. We also offer ten-class and twenty-class passes as a way to save money, $150 ($15/class) or $260 ($13/class) respectively. Additionally, we offer an $11 rate for students and seniors. If you have signed up for a class through the Brookfield Parks and Recreation (and you have already paid for the session), simply sign-in and write "P&R" in the "other" column on the sign-in sheet. We accept personal checks, cash, credit and debit cards at the studio. If you prefer to purchase a pass with a credit card online, you can purchase one right here on our website.

What will I do in a yoga class?
While each class is different depending on the style of yoga and the yoga instructor, these are components that you will probably experience during a yoga class;
- Warm ups
- Yoga Poses (called "Asanas"). Check out our gallery of poses.
- Breathing techniques (called "Pranayam")
- Cool down stretches
- Deep Relaxation / Guided Visualization
- Meditation
Some classes are designed to leave you feeling mellow, while others may energize you. We encourage you to try a few classes to see which style and teacher feels right for you. Always listen to your own body and never force in a yoga class. Your teacher should be able to suggest modifications to poses so that you can get the benefit of the practice without pain or injury. Ultimately, a yoga class should leave you feeling open, relaxed and alive! Once you try it, you'll see why we keep coming back!

What do all those sanskrit words mean?
Link to a glossary of yogic styles and terms.