FAQs
I’ve never done yoga before – will I be able to do chair yoga?
Yes! Chair yoga is a combination of stretches, strength building poses, balance practice, breathing, and meditation. There are levels of challenge, and a class can be customized for your needs. It can be very basic, or more challenging. Every pose has variations.
What kind of chair should I use?
A sturdy chair without arms or wheels on the bottom that is not going to slide on the floor. It can be wood, metal, or sturdy plastic. A little bit of padding on the seat and back is fine.
Do I need special yoga clothes?
No, just comfortable clothes that don’t restrict your movement. Avoid pants with zippers and buttons. Being barefooted is best, but peds or athletic socks are OK.
Do I need any special props?
You don’t have to buy anything special unless you want to. Two foam blocks, a yoga strap, and a set of light weights are nice to have but not required. A bathrobe tie or a man’s tie can be used as a strap. Target and Marshall’s often have light weights and sometimes have foam blocks. If you want to go nuts with yoga props, www.yogaoutlet.com has lots of fun items.
How do I clean my yoga mat?
Here’s a great article on how to clean your yoga mat here.
I have problems with some of my joints. Will chair yoga aggravate them?
If you communicate with Pat about your joint limitations, variations can be provided. Some stretches and poses can be done just on one side of the body, avoiding any sensitive areas.
I’m in good shape – is chair yoga too easy for me?
If you communicate with Pat, more challenging poses can be included in your class, and even some standing poses using the chair for support.
Is there any research about the benefits of chair yoga?
Yes! You can read these articles in peer reviewed journals about chair yoga:
Are there any books about chair yoga?
Yes! Here are some soft covered books with good pictures:
- Chair Yoga for You – A Practical Guide by Clarissa C. Adkins, Olivette Baugh Robinson, and Barbara Leaf Stewart
- All I Need Is This Chair Yoga by Wilma Carter
- SunLight Chair Yoga – Yoga for Everyone! By Stacie Dooreck
- Chair Yoga for Seniors by Lynn Lehmkuhl
Are there any articles about the benefits of chair yoga?
Yes! View this article here.
Get Started
Customized classes for seniors, persons with special needs, and persons recovering from injuries. Short classes can be provided as part of conferences or workshops.