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Meet the Yogi

Yogi ExpertRebecca Saline began practicing yoga eight years ago under the instruction of renowned yoga instructor, Baron Baptiste. She immediately fell in love with yoga and has since taken over 1,000 classes. In 2003, Rebecca began training at Philly Power Yoga under the instruction of Steve Gold, a certified Baptiste Power Yoga instructor. She quickly realized she had a special interest in teaching young children, and worked to receive her certification to teach kids ages 5-7, while training at Next Generation Yoga in New York City. Currently, Rebecca teaches ten yoga classes a week, including both private and group sessions. Rebecca comments on her passion for teaching yoga: "I love, love, love teaching yoga. I get so much satisfaction and pleasure out of it!"

Aside from Rebecca's yoga credentials, she holds a B.A. in Psychology from the George Washington University, a Masters degree in Elementary Education from Temple University,and has received her Reading Specialist Certification from the University of Pennsylvania.

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What are the benefits of yoga?

There are countless physical, mental and spiritual benefits of yoga. Yoga means to unite, or bring together, the mind, body and spirit. It helps you relax and handle stressful situations more easily, by cultivating focus and concentration. Yoga teaches you how to quiet and still the mind so you can focus your attention and energy where you want it to go, whether into a difficult yoga pose, or in any situation life may offer. Yoga encourages positive thoughts and self-acceptance. It builds awareness of your body, your feelings, the needs of others, and the world around you. Yoga is extremely effective in increasing flexibility, strengthening the entire body, and muscle toning. It improves respiration, energy and vitality. Yoga helps maintain a balanced metabolism and promotes cardio and circulatory health. 

Is it safe to practice yoga during pregnancy?

Yoga is safe and beneficial during pregnancy. Yoga calms both the mind and the body, and it helps you breathe and relax. It will help to relieve the physical and emotional stress that you may experience during pregnancy. Be sure to modify your yoga practice accordingly for each stage of your pregnancy. Poses that should be avoided throughout pregnancy are: intense twists, backbends, upward bow, and abdominal exercises and stretching. It is important to listen carefully to your body. Do not do anything that does not feel good. Every body is different, so do what feels good for your body. It never hurts to contact your doctor for his or her recommendations in regards to yoga and other exercises. Prenatal yoga classes have become very popular and the instructors will be able to help you with modifications and adjustments. They are also a great way to meet other moms-to-be!

Can I practice yoga even though I am not flexible and "can't touch my toes?"

Yes! Yes! Yes! Yoga will help loosen you up. The point of yoga is not to be able to put your legs behind your head and show off your flexibility. Yoga will help increase flexibility and your range of motion. Practicing yoga will strengthen the many systems of the body, like the circulatory system, the immune system and the endocrine system. Yoga calms the mind and will help steady your emotions, giving you a sense of empowerment.  It makes you feel comfortable in your body, no matter how flexible you are. Flexibility does not matter when it comes to practicing yoga. As long as you can breathe, you can practice yoga!

Special note: depending on the number of responses received, all questions may not be answered. For any medical concerns, you should always consult with your own doctor for medical advice, examination, diagnosis or treatment. Without an actual examination, these answers are generalized.