Although many physicians recommend yoga to patients suffering from stress and a variety of medical conditions, and although it is a relatively non-strenuous practice suitable for many, not everyone can do it. The American Yoga Association recommends against doing the poses for children, pregnant and nursing mothers, and for menstruating women, although in some cases the breathing and meditation components are fine. Other sources caution against yoga for those with risk of blood clotting, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, severe osteoporosis, uncontrolled blood pressure, herniated disks and severe issues with balance. Some aspects of yoga are safe, however, so it’s best to check with one’s own doctor.
Here are three among the many kinds of yoga offerings available in Ulster County.
Hot yoga
At NP Rock Yoga in New Paltz, the emphasis is on hot yoga for all levels, with patience an individual attention. Claimed benefits include the elimination of toxins and improvements to the digestive, lymphatic, cardiac and respiratory systems. Quiet, dustless Enerjoy radiant heat panels warm the studio to temperatures between 90 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the class, with a setting of bluestone tiles, bamboo flooring and cedar walls.
The most popular class is Hot Power 50, with 50 postures aimed at every muscle and joint in the body, in a 105F-degree room, which facilitates the work getting deeper into the tissues. Warm Power Vinyasa is in a 90-degree room, dynamic and set to music, geared toward building lean muscle mass. In Vitality Flow the room, set to 90 degrees in temperature, emphasizes stress-relieving breathing techniques and poses for flexibility, strength and toxin release. Also at 90 degrees is Go Deep, which breaks down poses into steps for intermediate yogis. At an intermediate to advanced level is Rock Asana, with poses designed to be challenging and energy packed.
Participants are asked to bring a mat, towel(s), a reusable water bottle, and to arrive early, well-hydrated and without having eaten for two hours. Find NP Rock Yoga at
215 Main Street in New Paltz or https://nprockyoga.com. For inquiries email [email protected].
