FAQ & General Info
Do I need to pre-register for classes?
Short answer, YES, we do ask you pre-register for all classes whether in person or online using our live streaming option. That said, we strongly recommend that you do register at least 90 minutes in advance of the class start time. If it is your first time visiting us, in addition to registering in advance for class, we recommend arriving at least 20 minutes prior to class starting. This will give you plenty of time to meet your instructor, ask questions and settle in on to your mat.
How do I register for class?
You can reserve classes in advance from the class schedules (see below) or from the MINDBODY app. To reserve a class, you must sign in to your SYL online account. If this is your first time signing into our website, create your dashboard by using the same email address you used when you first visited. Once signed in, you can link your class pass packs, membership, etc. to book classes. Be sure to subscribe to our emails and add your birth date to receive your class booking confirmations, special discounts and stay in the know when it comes to all things SYL.
What should I wear and bring to class?
First, choose a class and get to the studio 20 minutes before class starts. Bring your photo ID along with a mat, water, and towel. Wear fitted moisture wicking workout clothes. No mat, no worries, we have one you can borrow.
I've never done yoga, what is the best class to start with?
We recommend those who have never taken yoga before to start with a Yoga with a View class, Therapeutic, Yin, Restorative, Beginner, Vinyasa or Stretch Class. In all of these classes, we offer options for all levels. Connect with your instructor before or after class to ask questions or call us.
You'll find the more you practice, the more classes you'll be interested in trying. As you continue creating a solid yoga foundation, you will reap all the benefits yoga has to offer. Check our Workshop Schedule as we do offer Beginner and Foundation Workshops throughout the year.
If I'm new, where should I setup my mat in class?
Check with your Instructor prior to class. Try to show up a little early and let your Instructor know that it’s your first time. They will happily give you extra guidance and assistance during class to ensure you’re practicing yoga safely. As always, you can connect with the Studio Team during regular business hours. If we don't answer, please leave message and we'll get back to you within 48 hours.
I'm not flexible, can I still do yoga?
Yoga actually promotes flexibility. You don’t have to be flexible to start doing yoga. During the workday, much of our activity or, lack there of, shortens muscles. Think about how often you either sit at a desk, in your car or at home. Yoga lengthens and expands muscles while helping you release tension builds up in your body over time. Becoming more flexible is a great benefit of yoga, but the ultimate goal is to live more powerfully in mind, body and spirit. Remember, you don't have to touch your toes or be a pretzel to do yoga!
Can I practice yoga if I'm pregnant or have other physical conditions?
We highly recommend asking your doctor, they'll know what’s best for you and your situation. Always consult your doctor prior to doing any physical activity including yoga. Once you've consulted with your doctor and received permission to practice, we have plenty of classes accessible for all levels. We "DO NOT" offer Prenatal or Mommie & Baby yoga classes.
I running a little late, what should I do?
No problem! If you're less than 5 minutes late, check in with the Instructor and please be mindful of your fellow yogis quietly entering the class. Please setup your mat quickly and get ready for class to start.
What if I arrive after class starts?
Our priority is to promptly begin and end each class on time. Additionally, it disrupts the teacher and your fellow yogis particularly with busier classes. We are happy to drop you into an upcoming open class so that you don't lose your class credit. We recommend getting to the studio 10-15 minutes before class starts so you can get ready to practice.
What are the benefits of doing yoga?
This list is long but the benefits can vary depending on multiple factors. This can include, current health and physical limitations or even the amount of effort that is applied in each class. Yoga isn't a magic pill or cure all, but it does complement other forms of health & wellness programs.
That said, there have been multiple scientific studies that show the many benefits of yoga. It incorporates breathing exercises, meditation and poses designed to encourage relaxation and reduce stress. Practicing yoga is said to come with many benefits for both mental and physical health, though not all of these benefits have been fully backed by science. Here are just a few of them:
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Reduction in Stress
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Relieving Anxiety
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Improving Heart Health
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Reducing Inflammation
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Improving Quality of Life
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Relieving Depression
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Chronic Pain
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Sleep Quality & Insomnia
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Flexibility & Balance
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Breathing & Lung Capacity
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Headaches & Migraines
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Improved Eating Habits
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Increased Strength
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...and the list goes on
How often should I practice yoga?
Yoga can be safely practiced 7 days a week, and daily practice requires discipline, consistency and commitment. Like anything else, with a daily practice, you'll see a quicker transformation both physically and mentally. A practice of least two to three days per week, if consistent, will create transformation over time. Develop the spirit of repetition and dedication in your yoga practice, and you will see results!
Do you have age limits for your classes?
Yes, minors need to be at least 14 years of age to practice yoga in any of our, including live streamed. If the class is noted as heated, warm, etc. minors need to be at least 16 years of age. We "DO NOT" offer special classes for children under 14 years of age. Please review the notes below for additional information.
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Waiver forms of Minors/Children (under age 18) must be signed by his/her Parent or Legal Guardian.
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Minors/Children may not be left unattended at any Southtown Yoga Loft studio location or offsite event. (no exceptions)
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Minors/Children are not allowed to wait in the studio, lobby areas (on the premises) while their Parent or Legal Guardian participates in a class, workshop, etc. (no exceptions)
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If Child is participating in the Kids/Tween Class or Kids Special Event, for the safety and well-being of the child, the Parent or Legal Guardian MUST arrive no later than 15 minutes prior to class ending in preparation of picking up their child from class.
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No Minor/Child under the age of 16-years may participate in any class noted as Heated, Warm, etc.
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No Minor/Child under the age of 14-years may participate in any class other than Kids/Tween Class or Kids Special Events
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All Minors/Children 14-17-years must be accompanied by his/her Parent or Legal Guardian for any class they attend
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If a Child is attending a class, as outlined above, please arrive at least 20 minutes prior to the start of class in order to connect with the Teacher/Instructor.
I left something, what should I do?
Southtown Yoga Loft is not responsible for any lost or misplaced items. If you believe you've left an item, please check the Lost & Found bin. All items in the Lost & Found bin are donated at the end of each month.
ClassPass Reservations
We are no longer a ClassPass partner.
Can I purchase a Gift Card?
Gift Cards can be purchased online or after classes and are redeemable for merchandise and services. Gift cards cannot be used toward auto payment memberships. Discounted and/or Holiday Gift Cards cannot be applied toward Teacher Training programs, already discounted Class Packs or other Promotional programs.
Do you offer "free" classes?
We "DO NOT" offer free, complimentary or test classes. All classes must be paid in full prior to attending, including donation classes.
Do you offer any discounts?
Yes, we regularly offer discounts on services unless they are already on sale or are currently already discounted. Discounts to Veterans & Active Duty Military, Teachers & Students, First Responders and Seniors over 65 years of age on the following:
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Drop-in Classes
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Class Pass Packs
Discounts are taken in studio with valid ID only, no exceptions. No additional discounts apply on any other pricing options, already discounted rates, promotional items, etc.
I can't log into my account, what do I do?
In most cases this is caused by having two different accounts or it was setup under a different email address. Once in, if you are still having issues accessing your account or connecting your account to the mobile app, please re-verify your email address as this usually fixes the issue. If there is still an issue, please contact the studio directly and let us know which email we should be using info@southtownyogaloft.com
Can I transfer my passes or membership?
All memberships, class passes, etc. are non-transferable and non-refundable. Family sharing available upon request (class passes only) and class pass sales are final. All class passes must be used within the time noted, no exceptions, passes are not refundable, non-extendable, non-transferable from one client to another.
How do I freeze my membership?
No issues freezing your membership, we just require at least 1 week notice in writing. Just send us an email to info@southtownyogaloft.com. Memberships (no promotional) can be frozen for one month during a calendar year, according to your billing cycle. Class Pass, promo packs, etc. cannot be frozen at any time.
How do I cancel my membership?
Though we hate to see you leave, we get it, life happens! We require a 30 day notice in writing. Just send us an email to info@southtownyogaloft.com. Membership cancellations will run in line with your billing cycle.
What does Namaste mean?
Namaste directly translates to "the divine in me bows to the divine in you." It is said usually after class ends and isn't just a yoga word. Saying Namaste is way of showing respect to the Instructor that leads the class as well those around you that participated in it. In the simplest form, Namaste is the equivalent of hello, but with an element of respect.
What does Yoga mean?
Yoga can be traced back to ancient India more than 5,000 years ago. Yoga is a Sanskrit word meaning to join, or yoke; a union. Conceptually, yoga is the practice of fully uniting the body, mind and spirit.