How does yoga help reduce stress?

By stimulating your Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS)

  • “Your PNS is responsible for telling your muscles to relax, improving your digestion, boosting immunity, and helping you sleep better. It also normalizes your bloodpressure and lowers your heartrate.” 1

How do I find a yoga class?

A great resource for local yoga centers is the free magazine Yoga Chicago, which you can find at many Whole Foods stores, yoga studios and online at YogaChicago.com. Or try a class at a local studio, YMCA or your gym.

Different Styles of Yoga:

It’s a good idea to try several yoga classes and find the styles and teachers that resonate with you.

  • Hatha Yoga involves doing one pose after another and holding each pose for a certain length of time that the teacher determines. This style often includes breathing practices and, as all yoga classes do, it will end with a deep relaxation pose usually done lying down on your mat.
  • HeavyWeight Yoga ® for larger bodies is offered in Chicago at Ganesha Yoga* (see back page for details).
  • Vinyasa or VinyasaFlow classes link breath with movement are a more quick-paced than Hatha classes. You will flow from one pose to another, synching your breath with the movements.
  • AshtangaYoga involves a set series of poses. You will start with the first series and over time graduate into the more advanced series’. Those who like routines and rigorous exercise may enjoy this style.
  • Bikram is a set series of poses practiced in heated rooms – imagine being in a sauna. If you love the heat and want to practice the same series each time this style is for you. Hot Yoga classes are also done in heated rooms and may involve Hatha or Vinyasa sequences rather than the strict Bikram series.
  • Kundalini Yogainvolves rigorous breath-work that accompanies each pose. You will work up a sweat. The emphasis of this style is on subtle energies and may appeal to those who are drawn to a spiritual or esoteric practice.

There are many other styles to choose from as well. Have fun exploring!

References:

1Article “Positively Prana” by Rod Stryker, which can be found at

Tips for Beginners

  • You don’t have to be in good shape or flexible to practice yoga.
  • Consult with your doctor if you have any health conditions.
  • Start with a gentle or beginner’s class if you are new to yoga.
  • Let your teacher know if you have any injuries and don’t do anything that hurts.
  • Nobody can do all of the poses. Don’t worry if you don’t look like the person on the cover of the magazine.
  • Aim to practice once a week for a few months if possible. You will see benefits.
  • It’s best not to eat a heavy meal within the few hours before class.
  • Make sure to drink plenty of water after class.

What to Wear & What to Bring To Yoga Class

  • Dress comfortably in clothing you can stretch and bend in that’s not too tight or too baggy.
  • Bring socks and a sweater or sweatshirt to put on for deep relaxation, as the body tends to cool down.
  • Bring an eye pillow for deep relaxation if you are sensitive to light.
  • Most studios have yoga mats that you can rent or borrow.
  • If you want to purchase your own mat or yoga attire there are several yoga boutiques in Chicago such as:
  • Ganesha Yoga and Adventures in Fitness (sizes 2-22 for women)

3113 North Lincoln - Phone (773) 904-7870 &

  • Moksha Yoga, which has several Chicago locations - Phone (312) 942-9642
  • Or you’ll find plenty of choices online at Amazon or specialty shops such as
  • Bean Products at
  • Gaiam at
  • Manduka at Manduka.com

More about Caren Ann Jeskey:

Caren is a Licensed Certified Social Worker and a Registered Yoga Teacher. She specializes in stress reduction and mind-body wellness. Carenoffers yoga instruction for individuals, couples and families at local yoga studios or in your home or office. In addition to teaching yoga, Carenis apsychotherapist who practices body-centered therapy and meditation in conjunction with traditional therapy and does phone and online (Skype, Google Hangout, etc) counseling..

Contact Information:

312.583.9642

Please call or email for a free consultation.