Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring a mat?
If you don’t have a mat to bring, we have mats here for you to use.
Should I pre-register for a class? Can I just show up?
Pre-registration is always suggested thru our website or the Mindbody app. Just check-in at the front desk upon arrival. You are also welcome to simply drop-in and sign up at the front desk.
I’m a beginner to yoga. What class should I take?
Classes are open to all levels. We also suggest the 10:30am gentle yoga class which happens daily. These classes move at a slower pace so you can focus more on learning poses.
Do I have to be flexible to practice yoga?
The simple answer is no. If you are not flexible, yoga is a great way to become more flexible.
I’m pregnant and would like to take a class.
If you already have a yoga practice the daily 10:30am class is fine for you to attend.
Are classes outdoors?
The Maui Yoga Shala features two studios along with the outdoor garden lanai. Weather permitting and class size pending we will have the classes outside on the patio. Otherwise classes are held in our open air studio.
What are the class packages?
We have a 5 class pass, a 10 class pass, and a 20 class pass which are good for 4 months and are shareable between friends and family. We also have an unlimited monthly pass (not shareable). See rates for more info and pricing. You can opt for a drop-in or a pass when signing up on our website schedule for a class.
Can I bring my kids to class?
Yes! You can set them up on a mat right next to you.
What about kam’aina rates?
If you are a Maui resident you’ll receive a discount when you drop-in for a class or purchase a package at the desk.
What about eating or drinking before class?
It is a good idea to come to class hydrated and then wait to drink water after your yoga class. In most yoga traditions drinking water during class is not recommended. Try not to eat a full meal at least a couple hours before class.
What if I have pain or a previous injury?
It is always appropriate to talk to the instructor about any existing physical conditions and concerns you have about them. The wonderful thing about yoga is that there are multiple options to modify any pose as needed. Yoga benefits many people with chronic pain by helping the body regain balance between strength and flexibility, movement and awareness. If you are under a doctor’s care for an acute situation, please be sure to discuss taking yoga classes with him or her.
Is a yoga class strenuous? What if I am out of shape?
Some yoga classes are very strenuous. Others are relaxing and gentle. As a beginner, seek some lower-key yoga classes designed for those new to yoga. Once you feel more confident, you can begin branching out and finding the style of yoga that’s just right for you and your body. You can also inquire at the front desk about the various classes and teachers.
I am an experienced practitioner and looking for a stronger class.
We have multiple vinyasa flow classes on our schedule. The classes vary according to the yoga teacher. Ask us about which class may be good for you.
Questions about Yoga
What is yoga?
The word yoga means “union” or the method of discipline to realize the union between mind, body, and spirit. The Indian sage Patanjali codified the teachings of yoga which have existed since time immemorial into 196 one line mantras known as the Yoga Sutras. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali isn’t a book of poses – it lays out a very practical outline to understand the mind’s relationship to this reality and how to reach union with the Higher Self thru practice and knowledge. Most people in the west today practicing yoga are engaged in asana, the physical postures designed to purify the body and provide the physical strength and stamina required to become more meditative in this life.
What are the benefits of yoga?
Yoga improves strength, balance and flexibility. Focused movement along with deep breathing increases blood flow and warms up muscles, while holding a pose can build strength. Life force energy (refered to as prana) is increased and the practice gives you the tools to more aptly manage higher levels of energy. In fact, yoga benefits us on the cellular level. Off the mat you may also find yourself more calm and centered and ultimately empowered to make choices that are in alignment with your life’s purpose.
Is yoga a religion?
Yoga is not a religion and is open to all religions. Yoga is a mind, body and ultimately a spiritual practice designed to deepen your connection.
Will yoga help me to relax or sleep better?
Yes and yes.
What is OM?
Making the Om sound is a doorway to tranquility for yogic practitioners. It’s often done either at the beginning or ending of a yoga practice or as part of a longer mantra. Sound vibration significantly impacts a person’s physical, emotional, and mental state. By chanting Om, we can align our frequency with that of the original universal frequency. Om is the seed of transcendental sound, and it is through transcendental sound one can transform the mind and the senses. During the chant, the mind becomes aligned with the breath, which enables a person to get into an elevated state of consciousness.
Om is the sound of creation. Om is also called the Pranava, a Sanskrit word which means both controller of life force (prana) and life-giver (infuser of prana). Chanting Om together, the sound vibration becomes harmoniously one with all.
It is up to you whether you want to participate in this chant. Take a deep breath in before Om-ing.
Why do we say Namaste?
In India, namaste is a common greeting like aloha is in Hawaii. Both words invoke a recognition of spirit in yourself and the other and honors both.