WHY NUDE YOGA?
There is a sense of freedom practicing yoga naked. While many equate being naked with sex, this couldn't be further from the truth in a naked yoga class. It's about being comfortable in your own skin and the confidence that comes with it. It's about knowing, accepting and loving yourself. Part of yoga is to honor and connect with your body. Practicing yoga naked frees you from negative feelings about your body and allows you to be more accepting and deeply connected with yourself and the world around you. The practice is a stretch out of our normal comfort zones. Only growth can happen when you move beyond these norms. We create a safe space to become more vulnerable and courageous.
For some, this practice helps them to accept their body. For others, it's all about breaking through outdated beliefs or fears. Whatever your motivation or level of curiosity, this practice changes your relationship with fear, with others, with yourself. Even if you enjoy being naked, there's a vulnerability that comes with that level of exposure with others. Being naked collectively, eliminates brands, titles, and for some, even gender. You have the rare opportunity to be with other humans as just that, human. Perfectly perfect just the way you are. Members report that for this short period we're all just people. We all want similar things, and experience similar aversions. It's the small variants, our individuality, that make us beautiful and connected. You see, you wouldn't be you without the contrast of others and this practice reminds you of that. If you're afraid then this practice IS for you. There's an old saying, "Wherever you go, there you are". We carry the same beliefs, ideals, and ways of being into each situation, each scene of our lives. We practice changing that relationship with how you view and work with your changing scenery. Fear becomes an opportunity instead of a crutch. Shame becomes empowerment. Self-condemnation becomes self-love. On behalf of everyone that has shared this experience, we invite you to discover more of the free, happy, powerful and authentic you.
Here's recent coverage of our practice:
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of yoga do you teach? At The Dharma House we teach several styles of yoga but the practice is accessible to every body type. If you've suffered from injury or are concerned about your ability to practice. Ask your doctor or contact us for guidance.
Can I join the Nude Yoga class without being naked at first?
No, all participants must be naked in order to keep everyone on the same level and equal. That's what naked yoga is all about. We offer an intro to vulnerability nude class where you can begin to explore the practice in small steps.
The Dharma House sounds great, but I don't want to practice yoga. Do you mind if I just watch?
In order to protect the privacy of our members and promote the spirit of community, attendees must participate. Observers are not allowed. PHOTOGRAPHY IS NOT PERMITTED AT ANY TIME.
What if I get an erection?
It rarely happens, when it does it's okay and nothing to be embarrassed about. It will pass quickly. Erections happen for a lot of reasons and are not limited to sexual attraction. Yoga moves a lot of energy throughout the body and sometimes erections happen. But once we start moving, there is no way an erection could be sustained, because of the physical nature of Vinyasa Yoga.
I don't have the perfect body, will I feel out of place?
Being naked in 'public' is a fear a lot of people have and being naked and practicing yoga can be intimidating. Our society is driven by an unrealistic ideal of physical beauty, which can fuel an array of insecurity and self-doubt. Most people don't have the body of a model and yet, we hold ourselves to those standards. One of the reasons The Dharma House is offering naked yoga class is to help you gain confidence by accepting and loving your body as it is. It can be a very healing experience.
Will I be touched by the teacher?
Yes, as in any yoga class, the teacher will touch you at times to correct alignment and to help avoid possible injury if the posture is performed incorrectly. The teacher's touch will not be sexual in any way. You always have the option to practice without adjustments.
What if I meet someone who I find attractive and want to date or hook up with?
Great, just do it outside of The Dharma House. One of the goals of The Dharma House is to meet and get to know each other, but we are no hook up place by any stretch of the imagination. The energy in the room is very clear and false intentions will not be tolerated. We have no problem asking someone to leave if his or her behavior is inappropriate.
I have injuries/medical conditions, is it safe for me to practice at The Dharma House?
Generally speaking the answer is yes. You will want to tell your instructor about your issues before class so we can modify your practice. You should always consult a physician before you start any exercise program.
Is my Dharma House membership confidential?
Absolutely. All information collected on the membership form as well as the liability waiver is confidential and will not be shared with anyone.
Arrived late / locked out
In order to protect members privacy and comfort, we lock the door at the beginning of class. Your reservation is guaranteed only up to 5 minutes before the start of class. After that time, we may give your spot to someone on the waiting list. If you arrive late and get locked out, we may count this as a 'no-show' and apply the fee to your membership. To avoid disappointment, please plan to arrive 15 minutes early each time you attend class. Allow plenty of extra time for delays.
Can beginners attend class?
Yes, but we highly recommend you take it easy and allow yourself the freedom of being a beginner. To start your journey of yoga our Intro to nude yoga workshop will support your growth best. Several students ave chosen to take a few private sessions to get comfortable before attending a general session.
If you have a question that hasn't been answered here, please contact us at info@dharmahousecolumbus.com