What does ‘Qavah’ mean?
The word, “qavah” (pronounced KA-vah) is a Greek word meaning “wait.” Not a sit-around-and-twiddle-your-thumbs kind of waiting, but the kind of waiting that’s referred to in Isaiah 40:31: “Those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength.” It’s waiting with an expectant – and an enduring – hope. A kind of waiting that brings calm, peace, and ultimately strength. It’s exactly the kind of waiting that I bring to my yoga mat, and ideally bring off of it as well.
What is Christian Yoga? Isn’t that an oxymoron?
A lot of well-meaning Christians are nervous about yoga, and/or afraid that it may be at odds with their faith. It’s important to realize that yoga itself is a methodology, not a theology. While it’s true that yoga is used in Eastern religions, it did not begin there. In fact, early caveman drawings show that yoga postures were done long before any recognized religion. The practice and benefits of yoga can be employed by any religion, or by no religion at all (such as you might find at a health club). One of the wonderful things about the Yoga Alliance is that they welcome and respect diversity when it comes to different styles of yoga. Every 200-hour RYT must complete the same requirements in terms of hours of postures, history, and teaching methodology; but the particular style chosen is up to each individual. Yahweh Yoga is a specific style of Hatha yoga, recognized by the Yoga Alliance, that seeks to honor God through its classes and its practice. Classes may begin and end with a scripture and/or short devotional, and the music may contain songs of praise or contemporary Christian bands and artists. The thing that never changes? The beauty, simplicity, and strength of the poses themselves. A downward dog is still a downward dog. 
Why should I do yoga?
Most of us live busy and hectic lives. The practice of yoga gives us an opportunity to breathe and de-stress … to quiet our minds, to reconnect with our bodies, and to just be still. Yoga can also increase and improve circulation, cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and help with weight loss. Please take a minute and read this list, compiled by the Yoga Alliance, of yoga’s many benefits.
How should I prepare for my first class?
It’s always best to practice yoga on an empty stomach. If you need to eat within an hour or two before class, try to make it something very light, such as a piece of fruit. Be sure to bring a bottle of water, and your yoga mat if you have one. You may also want a light sweatshirt/wrap for your final resting pose. To save a few minutes at your initial visit, you can download and print a waiver, and bring it with you when you come to class. Finally, give yourself permission to take a whole hour for yourself… to leave your stress, worries, and insecurities behind, and to let it all go on your mat.
I want to start eating better, but don’t know where to start. Can you help?
Yes! I understand how confusing and overwhelming it can be to even browse the nutrition section at the bookstore. Low fat, high fat, low carb, high protein, low glycemic, gluten free, sugar free, dairy free…. I can break it all down for you, assess your current diet, talk about your individual needs, and help you come up with a plan of action. Please see my nutrition services page for a more detailed description of what I can offer.
What is a raw or ‘living foods’ diet, and what does it have to do with yoga?
Simply put, raw or living foods are foods that are as close to their natural state as possible, exactly as nature intended. A raw diet is comprised of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and grains, none of which is heated beyond 115 degrees. Sound restrictive? You would be AMAZED at what can be done with raw foods! From entrees like zucchini noodles with raw marinara, to soups to chilis to fabulous desserts like brownies and raw apple pie, it is such a delicious way to eat. Plus, your body is receiving many times the nutritive value of its cooked counterparts, because you’re not losing the vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that are destroyed by heat. Once you’re taking good care of your body with yoga, it only makes sense to carry that through to other aspects of self-care… by addressing bad habits and negative self-talk, nurturing your spiritual life, and feeding your body the best possible fuel for the job.
What’s the best way to contact you?
Email is always the quickest and easiest way to get in touch. I check my emails as they come in, and I should get back to you within the day.
