Yoga: What does 'Om' mean?
Om is a mantra, or vibration, that is traditionally chanted at the beginning and end of yoga sessions. It is said to be the sound of the universe. Somehow the ancient yogis knew what scientists today are telling us—that the entire universe is moving. Nothing is ever solid or still. Everything that exists pulsates, creating a rhythmic vibration that the ancient yogis acknowledged with the sound of Om. We may not always be aware of this sound in our daily lives, but we can hear it in the rustling of the autumn leaves, the waves on the shore, the inside of a seashell. Chanting Om allows us to recognize our experience as a reflection of how the whole universe moves—the setting sun, the rising moon, the ebb and flow of the tides, the beating of our hearts.
How Is Yoga different from stretching or other kinds of fitness?
Unlike stretching or fitness, yoga is more than just physical postures. Patanjali's eight-fold path illustrates how the physical practice is just one aspect of yoga. Even within the physical practice, yoga is unique because we connect the movement of the body and the fluctuations of the mind to the rhythm of our breath. Connecting the mind, body, and breath helps us to direct our attention inward. Through this process of inward attention, we learn to recognize our habitual thought patterns without labeling them, judging them, or trying to change them. We become more aware of our experiences from moment to moment. The awareness that we cultivate is what makes yoga a practice, rather than a task or a goal to be completed. Your body will most likely become much more flexible by doing yoga, and so will your mind.
Is Yoga a religion?
Yoga is not a religion. It is a philosophy that began in India an estimated 5,000 years ago. The father of classical ashtanga yoga (the eight-limbed path, not to be confused with Sri K. Pattabhi Jois' Ashtanga yoga) is said to be Patanjali, who wrote the Yoga Sutra. These scriptures provide a framework for spiritual growth and mastery over the physical and mental body. Yoga sometimes interweaves other philosophies such as Hinduism or Buddhism, but it is not necessary to study those paths in order to practice or study yoga. It is also not necessary to surrender your own religious beliefs to practice yoga.
I'm not very flexible — Can I do Yoga?
Yes! You are a perfect candidate for yoga. Many people think that they need to be flexible to begin yoga, but that's a little bit like thinking that you need to be able to play tennis in order to take tennis lessons. Come as you are and you will find that yoga practice will help you become more flexible. This newfound agility will be balanced by strength, coordination, and enhanced cardiovascular health, as well as a sense of physical confidence and overall well-being.
What do I need to begin Yoga?
All you really need to begin practicing yoga is your body, your mind, and a bit of curiosity. But it is also helpful to have a pair of yoga leggings, or shorts, and a t-shirt that's not too baggy. No special footgear is required because you will be barefoot.
Why are you supposed to refrain from eating 2–3 hours before class?
In yoga practice we twist from side to side, turn upside down, and bend forward and backward. If you have not fully digested your last meal, it will make itself known to you in ways that are not comfortable. If you are a person with a fast-acting digestive system and are afraid you might get hungry or feel weak during yoga class, experiment with a light snack such as yogurt, a few nuts, or juice about 30 minutes to an hour before class.
Are there professional standards for the coaching industry?
Yes, there is a code of ethics, core competencies, accreditation processes and an International Coach Federation that promotes the advancement of coaches. To learn more about this click here.
How will I know you are the right coach for me?
You can begin by learning more about my approach by clicking on my BIO page. As well, intuition is usually your guide. The relationship either resonates, or it doesn't, and this is okay. The process is about building a relationship with a coach who can facilitate the process of “connecting consciousness to core creation."
What can I expect from my Coach?
- A relationship grounded in truth & authenticity.
- A safe, confidential environment
- A listener ~ I reserve more of the time for you to have a voice.
- A non-judgmental facilitator, everyone has a story to share. The story belongs to you and you only.
- You can expect some frankness, humour, and insight, what some may refer to as those "a-ha" moments.
What if I register with my Life Coach and decide it is not right for me? Is there a money back guarantee?
You will know if the connection is or isn't there within the first 3 active participation sessions. "Active" refers to your willingness to pause in "discomfort" and make a conscious effort to work with your coach to move to a place of comfort.
If after these initial sessions you find that the process isn't working for you, CoreCreation will refund you 50% of services paid.
If you commit to the Coaching or Reiki processes and miss your scheduled sessions without prior notification, and you elect not to complete the exercises agreed upon, then your money will not be refunded.
Can I contact my Coach in between our scheduled coaching sessions?
Yes. If you would like support for something that comes up in between your sessions, you can post a message and expect a follow-up within 24 hours.
What is Reiki?
Reiki is the Japanese word for Universal Life Force, pure healing energy. While Reiki is gentle and non-invasive, it powerfully heals and accelerates the release of energetic impasses in the chakras (energy centers), thus opening the path to stress reduction, pain relief and freedom from mental and emotional blocks. Reiki is a holistic technique, which does not interfere with other forms of health care. It accelerates the healing process and provides a source of restoring energy
You can learn more about Reiki by visiting The Canadian Reiki Association: reiki.ca
How do you incorporate Reiki into Coaching?
Reiki can be offered stand-alone or in tandem with a coaching session. For some clients, limiting beliefs and the ability to shift into core creation are blocked by deep-rooted events, traumas & life situations. Reiki facilitates the process by allowing the movement of energy through the chakras to release and open.
Disclaimer: You must not rely solely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or other professional healthcare providers.
What forms will I need to complete?
Coaching:
- Coaching Agreement
- Coaches Code of Ethics
- Confidentiality Form
Reiki:
- Confidentiality Agreement
- Case history of health status
Throughout our sessions, you will be assigned tasks. These tasks will vary in form. You are required to complete these tasks to take the necessary steps to allow the transformation to occur.
What if I need to reschedule my appointment?
Our time is equally important and invaluable. Therefore, if either you or your Coach must cancel, respectfully offer each other 24 hours notice.
How do I pay for services?
Follow the payment instructions on the registration page.
