Yoga is thousands of years old!
Yes, you read that right.
There is no way a blog post, a blog series, or even a big pile of books could cover ALL there is to know!
So it’s my humble desire to share a bit of background and help orient you to this life-changing practice.
Yoga old-timers – I think there’s some stuff here for you, too!
Yoga FAQ
1. What is yoga?
Yoga is a spiritual practice and series of philosophies thousands of years old, originating in what we now call northern India. There are many modalities and schools of yoga. To quote Parveen Jain, “Yoga, in general, is a spiritual medium for one’s pursuit of internal peace through the cultivation of harmony between the practitioner’s physical and spiritual energies. It remains a highly pious practice for spiritually minded people despite its association with the global community expercise industry in more recent times.”
2. If yoga isn’t just physical exercise – is it a religion?
Yoga is not a religion. Yoga might best be described as a practical, structured, scientific framework and embodiment practice that aims at improving our personal and social ills and enhancing our quality of life. There are so many schools of yoga and yoga scholars and thousands of writings and sutras, some of which are quite deeply developed. No one person can define yoga so please don’t let yourself be intimidated from exploring.
At Little Switch most classes are āsana – that is, a physical workout or movement practice. We also provide resources for yoga studies through blog posts, social media, and the Facebook group.
3. What is yoga like at Little Switch?
We currently host five regular classes per week – Tuesday morning Gentle Yoga (yoga for all and every body), Tuesday night Varsity Yoga (our toughest, most focused class), Wednesday night Mobility and Longevity, (a vigorous and strong physical class), Thursday night Flow & Let Go, (vinyasa followed by Restorative yoga), and Sunday group (an eclectic, popular class where you will get a yoga education bit by bit). The first Sunday of the month in Sunday Group we host LGBTQ+ Yoga, to support the queer community (all are invited). And the last Sunday of the month at 4 PM, we host a Community Meditation. In addition, we have regular special series and events. The best way to stay connected, is to join our email list.
4. Are your classes a workout?
Oh yes. Most of them! But not all yoga āsana classes are vigorous. Some are gentle, or restorative – some are about healing and strengthening. Others are supportive of mental and emotional health: mindfulness, meditation, and nidra. Whatever physical, emotional, mental and social benefits you’re looking for – there are yoga modalities that can help. Please give yourself the gift of finding what works for you. If you end up in a class that’s difficult for your abilities, that’s an opportunity to take breaks. If you end up in a class that isn’t as vigorous as you’d like, that’s your opportunity to work on the body-breath-mind connection. No yoga is ever wasted, if you bring a beginner mindset to the mat!
5. What are the benefits of yoga?
Yoga asana decreases stress. Yoga asana guards against injury. Yoga asana helps retain grey matter and wards off dementia and brain aging.
Yoga helps guard against falls and injury. Yoga asana increases strength, mobility, and endurance. Yoga asana helps your body FEEL better. Yoga asana can heal some types of backache, even something chronic!
Yoga benefits your mental health: the right kind of practice will deliver more clarity and less agitation. Group yoga increases social well-being when practiced in a constructive community environment.
There is so many ways we can benefit!
That said, yoga asana is not a cure-all nor a substitution for physical therapy, support groups, physician-prescribed medication, or other modalities of healing.
Yoga provides benefits if you practice! It is your responsibility to find the best yoga practices that work for you and carefully tend to your needs.
6. How do I pick the yoga class for me?
The best way is to read through the class list on my site, book a session – and show up!
7. How can I make the most of my yoga practice?
Find the class that is best for you, and stay after class to discuss your experience with me! I am usually available for brief consultations after class. If you want something more in-depth, consider scheduling a private session!
8. What if I can’t afford classes?
Little Switch has the lowest group class rate on the Harbor through our sliding scale membership. We also have monthly pay-what-you-wish events. We provide many yoga resources at no-cost – including online resources and in-person no-cost events. Make sure you’re signed up for emails so you are the first to get notice of upcoming workshops and classes.
9. Do you provide private instruction as well?
I absolutely do! In fact at the bottom of this post you can read more about that.
10. What should I expect in group class?
Make sure to come to class a few minutes early! Respect the time of all participants as well as the instructor.
All you need is a yoga mat and comfortable clothes. I suggest wearing layers so you can add or remove them as we practice.
If you don’t have a mat, never fear! Students are welcome to use the mats we have here. If you don’t have a mat, never fear! Students are welcome to use the mats we have here. (I do recommend investing in your own mat, so you are more likely to practice at home too.)
Arrive at least five minutes before class start time, take off your shoes (and socks, usually), and find a comfortable spot. Arrive at least five minutes before class start time, take off your shoes (and socks, usually), and find a comfortable spot. If you think you may need help with balance, find a place near the wall.
We typically begin with a few centering moments, followed by a series of asanas – physical movements and poses designed to improve strength, flexibility, and balance. We use my yoga space’s blocks, straps, blankets, and other props to help each person reach proper alignment, expression, and breath.
Towards the end of the class, we wind down with savasana, or another resting pose. Then we close out our class, clean our mats, and put them away (along with other props). I almost always have time after class to talk!
Sunday group class I bring tea to share. You are not required to stay, but you are welcome to! You will find connection with the other community members who are investing in their yoga practices.
I write more about group class here.
11. What should I expect for a private session?
Private lessons are a gorgeous, luxurious gift you give yourself! They allow the time and space for yoga instruction and modification that is not possible during group class.
In private lessons we discuss in detail your goals and desires as well as your specific strengths, abilities, and preferences for movement and expression. It’s a great chance to talk about any limitations of or hopes for your practice, and to celebrate who you are today. We’ll take a look at some unique flows and movements to emphasize a deeper understanding of each posture, as well as assess the best modalities for what you’re looking for.
I find private lessons allow a heightened connection to the transformational benefits of practice. They are an investment of your time, energy, and commitment. They are perfect to compliment group class.
I wrote a bit more about what to expect in private instruction here.
You can book a private session with me here.
Mats are provided or bring your own.
Dress comfortably and in layers to help regulate your temperature!
All abilities, ages and experience levels are encouraged to attend!
Please make sure to read the Code of Conduct and attendant onboarding materials. Come to your first class a bit early to sign the Yoga Waiver & Release Form.
Land Acknowledgement
Little Switch Yoga is located on the ancestral lands of the Chehalis, Chinook, Quinault, and Shoalwater Bay peoples.
© 2026 by Agni Hogaboom. Little Switch Yoga is located at 301 W 6th St, Aberdeen WA, 98520.