New to the studio? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.

• What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to stretch and move your body without constriction.  Sweat pants, yoga tights, tank tops, and tees shirts all work well.  Yoga is practiced barefoot and we ask you to leave your shoes in the hallway before you enter the studio.

• What do I need to bring?

At no charge, LRY provides yoga mats, blocks, bolsters, straps, meditation cushions and purified drinking water.  We encourage you to bring your own yoga mat if you have one and a water bottle.  We do not provide cups for the water.

• Where do I get changed?

Laughing River Yoga has a changing room in the studio and two bathrooms just across the hall.  There are showers on the 2^nd floor of the Chace Mill.

• What is the best class for beginners?

This depends on you.  If you are looking for a slow, relaxed introduction to yoga we recommend our specialized 6 week beginner series with Emily Garrett.  If this class does not work for your schedule try dropping in to Gentle Kripalu, Gentle Vinyasa, Anusara or Hatha to start.

If you are looking for more of a workout and feel ready to dive in deep straight from the beginning, then you can begin anywhere (just remember to honor your body’s wisdom and let go of any achievement-sense).

If you try a class and it doesn’t work for you, it might simply not be the right style or teacher for you.  We offer a wide variety of styles and teachers with the hope that you will find the right fit for you, making it worth trying a few different classes if necessary in order to find your match.  Having trouble finding the right class? Don’t hesitate to email emily@laughingriveryoga.com or call 802-343-8119 for help.

• What are the different types of yoga offered at Laughing River Yoga?

For detailed information about the classes we offer at the studio, please visit our class description section online.

• How much does yoga cost?
  • Laughing River Yoga offers donation-only community classes at 9 am Monday- Friday.  Suggested donation is $5-$15.
  • All other yoga classes cost $13 (60 and 90 minutes).
  • 10 class passes cost $110 and are good for one year.
  • Unlimited Class Cards can be purchased at the start of each month for $130.

• How often should I practice yoga?

As often as possible! Even if you spend only 10-15 per days stretching or practicing conscious breathwork, you’ll notice the benefits of your effort! Consistency is the key. After about four yoga classes at the studio, you should get the hang of it.

• Where can I park my bike or car?

Laughing River Yoga has ample parking in the Chace Mill lot where we are located and there is a bike rack on the side of the building.

• Can I feel at home here?

We want you to feel comfortable at Laughing River Yoga and a part of the community.  Please feel free to ask our instructors for anything you need.  Join us for special monthly workshops at the studio, participate in our blog and on facebook, and enjoy LRY retreats.  LRY teachers like to know your name, please say hello! You are welcome here as you are. Namaste!

• What is yoga?

The word yoga means “union” in Sanskrit (yuj), the language of ancient India where yoga began. Yoga is the linking of mind, body and spirit.

What is often referred to as “yoga” can be more precisely described by the Sanskrit word asana, which means physical posture.  Hatha Yoga, which describes much of the yoga practiced at our studio and in our culture, means moving through yoga postures.

Hatha Yoga is only one type of yoga and asana is only one of the eight “limbs” of yoga, outlined in the Yoga Sutras by Patanjali, a text outlining the basic philosophy and practices of Classical Yoga.  The majority of yoga, the other seven limbs, is greater concerned with mental and spiritual well being than physical activity.

Hatha Yoga, which includes postures and breathing, and is the form most popular in the West, is actually part of Raja Yoga, the path of self control. Within Hatha Yoga there are many styles, including Vinyasa, Iyengar, Astanga, Bikram, Kundalini, Kripalu, Jivamukti and more.