Helpful Tips for New Yoga Students
Before you take your first yoga class, you may be wondering what to expect and how you can ease into the practice like a true yogi. Yoga is movement…and movement is for everybody and every body.
Ages 13 and up are welcome to attend our regularly scheduled classes.
Please be on time
All of our classes begin promptly and the doors are often locked when class begins. Arrive early and unwind before class keeping voices soft. You will need to complete the New Student Intake form prior to your first class. Please turn off cell phones and other electronic devices that could cause distraction during class.
Wear appropriate clothing
Dress comfortably and appropriately for practice. Stretchy pants you can move in but that are not too tight and a top that is close-fitting so that it won’t ride up over your head when you’re in downward dog or bending over in forward fold are recommended.
Practice Barefoot
You want to feel your feet connect with the mat, the ground, or the earth. Please remove shoes upon entering the studio and place all personal belongings on the shelves provided.
Equipment Needed
The only piece of equipment you really need as a beginner is a yoga mat (we have some to lend), it’s better to have your own as it’s much cleaner and safer for your health. Props are provided. Your mat is your personal yoga space. If you plan to practice at home, you might also want to invest in a pair of blocks, a blanket, and a yoga strap, but you won’t need to bring these items to the studio with you. At the end of class, please put your props away neatly and orderly.
Practice on an empty stomach
For your comfort, we recommend that you do not eat a large meal within two hours prior to class. A piece of fruit or some veggies or nuts is a good snack option before class. Also be sure not to drink too much before class so you would not want to interrupt your practice to run to the bathroom!
Inform your Instructor
If you have a heart condition or other serious physical limitations or ailment, please let your instructor know BEFORE class begins. If you have a current or old injury, soreness, or tightness, speak up, so your instructor can help you modify poses and assist you if necessary, or know why you are skipping certain movements.
Listen to Your Body
Listen to your body and respect your limitations. Pushing yourself beyond comfort and pain is not part of a yoga practice. Don’t always go for the most challenging variation of a pose. In mixed level classes that are open to beginners, teachers will often offer several variations or options so that all students can practice safely and comfortably. Don’t attempt full lotus if your body isn’t ready for it! Yoga class is not a competition. It’s a time to integrate your body, mind, and soul.
Do your own practice
The practice is your own, not your neighbor’s, so don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone is different. You’ll be able to do some poses easily and others will be a challenge. These will be different from the poses that your neighbor finds easy or challenging. This is often why yoga studios do not have mirrors.
Breathe!
The very first thing you will probably learn is how to take full breaths. Everything in yoga is easier once you’ve mastered proper breathing techniques. The breath is a yogi’s best friend, so when you find yourself in a challenging pose, don’t hold your breath…breathe through it.
Go with the Flow
You might find some things happening in class that seem a bit odd to you at first. This may include chanting, burning incense, or bowing to the teacher at the end of class. The teacher may also give a short talk or read something “yogic” before class, and some of the concepts may seem strange or vague at first. Listen and soak it in. In time, you’ll think back to these first impressions and smile.
If you absolutely must leave class early, please do so quietly before savasana (final relaxation) begins.
Remember to breathe…and smile – Yoga should always feel good!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Yoga?
Yoga is an ancient refined system for improving overall health, including both our physical and mental health. The word yoga is loosely translated as “union.” A physical yoga practice connects the breath with the movement of the poses (asanas) in an effort to balance the mind and body. Linking the breath with the physical postures cultivates a sense of calm and peace that translates beyond the yoga mat into our everyday life.
“Will I be able to make my own practice?
Absolutely! You don’t need to be flexible to practice yoga. Flexibility is a progressive result of yoga, not a prerequisite. With practice, you will develop flexibility in the mind and body. So, don’t worry if you can’t touch your toes! Come as you are, honor your body, and respect your limitations. Be patient, you will increase flexibility, strength, and balance in time. The beauty of yoga is that it is a life long process.
Is yoga a workout?
Yes. Yoga can provide you with both cardiovascular and strength building benefits in addition to numerous other mind-body benefits. It is a complete workout because it works all the muscle groups. You can easily work up a sweat, tone muscles, increase flexibility, improve balance, and find stress relief all at the same time. Yoga can be a light exercise or it can be vigorous inducing quite a detoxifying sweat. Please refer to our class descriptions to choose the classes that are appropriate for your needs.
Nama – What?
At the end of class, we often say Namaste (pronounced nah-mah-stay). We exchange this gesture bringing our hands together at our heart as a way of recognizing the connection that we all share. This humble greeting or farewell, simply put, means that I honor the light and love in you which is also within me.
Can children attend classes?
Ages 13 and up are welcome to attend our regularly scheduled classes.
Do I need to pre-register or call ahead to attend classes?
No. All of our classes are on going, so drop in for any class on our current schedule. Please arrive a few minutes early allowing yourself time to sign in and get comfortable on your mat. The only time you would possibly need to pre-register would be for a scheduled special event or workshop. Visit our Events page or see what is scheduled on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
What do I need for class?
Wear comfortable lightweight clothing that is not too loose (because it might get in the way while doing some of the postures). You can bring water, a towel, and a yoga mat if you have one. For sanitary purposes, we strongly recommend bringing your own mat, however, we do have mats available at the studio for your use. Props such as blocks, straps, and blankets are provided.
How often should I practice?
As often as possible! Consistency is key in a yoga practice. Once a week is a great start. However, two to three times a week will allow you to quickly witness the transformational effects of yoga. For life changing results, practice as much as possible. Remember, yoga is a life long process and journey.
Is Yoga a religion?
Yoga is not a religion. It is an ancient science which leads to health in the body, peace in the mind, happiness in the heart, and liberation within ourselves. It is based on fundamental principles of life and can be practiced by anyone, anywhere, at anytime. Instead of discrediting your own beliefs or spiritual faith, yoga can actually deepen it.