What Is Yoga?

Yoga is a Sanskrit (the ancient language of India where yoga originated)term meaning "to yoke" or "to become one". You can think of this term as creating the union between the body, mind and spirit. Here, in the west, we tend to think of Yoga as "Hatha", however the physical or Hatha yoga is only one of the Eight Limbs of Yoga; for this question we will refer only to the Hatha Limb of Yoga. Many think of Yoga as simply a series of stretches, while stretching is an integral part of Yoga, what is truly involved is the creating of balance throughout the body, developing flexibility, strength and inner peace. This is done through the practice of Asanas (physical postures) each with a specific benefit, with Pranayama (breath control) and with meditation. Asanas can be done quickly and in succession (known as Vinyasa) or more slowly working towards perfect alignment, like in the Iyengar tradition. The Asanas (postures) are constant but the approach to them varies depending on the tradition in which the teacher was trained.


What Is Pilates?

Pronounced pill-ah-teez and named after it's creator Joseph H. Pilates (who originally named it "Contrology" the art of movement) this method is a form of isometric movements developed and practiced to simultaneously stretch, strengthen, tone and ultimately align the body for superior health. All is done while eliminating excess tension, strain on the joints and with the requirement of total concentration. These elegant and flowing movements improve posture by isolating "core" muscles and are well suited for everybody.


What are the Benefits of Developing a Yoga or Pilates Practice?

What is extraordinary about both of these unique disciplines is their broad appeal. Both men and women, old and young from the novice to the master; everyone benefits from these practices s they become an integral part of who you are! Besides increasing the endurance of both your physical and mental strength these practices become a part of who you are! You will find an increased self understanding and confidence as your body and mind become integrated. You will begin to move as a more efficient organism. You will be better adjusted and able to deal with stress. You will find you are better able to sleep, have lessened pain and discomfort. Have improved sexual enjoyment and stamina. Balance, strength, coordination, flexibility and posture are all improved dramatically. Bone density increases, incontinence is reversed and risk to heart disease and cancer are lessened... Sound too good to be true? Science backs us up! We are now beginning to really understand the benefits of Mind-Body Medicine and of “Core” strengthening for a myriad of physical problems. These have all been the findings of medical studies on people with a regular Yoga and/or Pilates practice. When done properly, this work has been proven so effective that both Yoga and Pilates are now being implemented into medical training for the alleviation of chronic low back pain, fibromyalgia, gait stability for Parkinson ’s disease, Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis , urinary incontinence, asthma, osteoporosis, hypertension as well as other medical conditions.
Don't Wait Another Day To Begin! YOU Are Worth It!

“You are never too young or too old to start a Yoga or Pilates Practice!”

How do I Locate a Skilled and Knowledgeable Instructor?

With all the hype surrounding Yoga & Pilates today it can be very confusing to locate a qualified instructor. For example, did you know Joseph H. Pilates never protected his work and ANYONE can call themselves a Pilates Instructor? Or that because of the length of time Yoga has been around ANYONE can call themselves a Yoga Instructor? And, unfortunately, they do! Many people have jumped on the bandwagon with various degrees of training. It is very important to become informed regarding your instructor’s qualifications. This is important not only to insure you get your money’s worth from your lessons, but also to insure a quality workout with minimal risk of injury from improper instruction. For these reasons you should become an educated consumer and ask questions!

Stephanie Mortellaro’s years of comprehensive studies culminated in very intensive written and practical exams ultimately leading to her advanced certifications. She requires the same from all staff members as BEYOND continues to be a leader in bringing you quality work with great integrity!

“Close your eyes & you will see clearly.
Cease to listen & you will hear truth.
Be silent & your heart will sing.
Seek no contacts & you will find union.
Be still & you will move forward on the tide of the spirit.
Be gentle & you will need no strength.
Be patient & you will achieve all things.
Be humble & you will remain entire.”
~Taoist Meditation