The Things You Must Know Before Joining Yoga Class

7 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Before Joining A Yoga Class

Perhaps you have already heard about the numerous benefits of yoga and how it
can combat weight gain, stress and even anxiety.

But attending your very first
session can be
intimidating
especially when you have
no clue
as to what to expect.

There are a number of
preparations you need to be
aware of before participating
in your very first yoga
session.
Here are the things that
you must know

1
DON’T SKIP MEALS
but don’t attend on a full
stomach either

Many people attend
yoga class in the morning
right after they have
eaten their breakfast.

However, this will hinder their practice sessions.
As yoga involves twisting, bending and hopping into poses,
your stomach must not be digesting any food at that time.

If you prefer to eat your
meals before attending
your yoga class, make
sure that you eat at least
an hour ahead
of time

In the case that this would be
impossible and you just need to
satisfy your hunger, you can
eat a small apple or a piece of
banana
at least 20 minutes
before your session
begins.

2
BRING YOUR OWN
yoga mat

Many studios and
programs offer you to
purchase your own yoga
mat. Some also rent them
out.

While choosing a good quality mat can be a bit costly, it is certainly worth
it – especially when you are committing to the program for a longer period
of time

You will be
Sweating and Rolling
Because of this, many people do
not find mat rentals hygienic,
even if the studios assure you
that they clean their mats every
after session

You will be
Sweating and Rolling
Because of this, many people do
not find mat rentals hygienic,
even if the studios assure you
that they clean their mats every
after session
Other props like a strap, block, yoga blanket and other accessories can be
borrowed in the studio but you can also buy your own if you want.

3
TRY TO ARRIVE EARLY
on every class

When attending a class in a
studio, it is important that you
arrive early
due to numerous reasons.

If this is your first time, you can
have an ample time to work on
your paperwork and talk about
introductory
discounts.
Some studios also offer other
types of money-saving options
that you can possibly be
entitled to.

Arriving early also gives you the chance to find a prime location where you can
comfortably carry out the poses. Staying close to the instructor when it is still
your first time will provide a better insight of the practice.

4
THERE MIGHT BE SOME CHANTING
in the class you enrolled in.

Yoga is not just a physical practice, it also promotes spiritual
wellness by chanting

If you happen to enroll in a class that includes Sanskrit chanting at the
beginning and at the end of the session,
there is no pressure to take part in it

Just relax, breathe, listen and keep an open mind.
If you wish to take part and try it, your may do so as well.

5
BREATHING IS
IMPORTANT
in yoga.

Your breathing should be in sync with your poses. Although this will be
a difficult task to perform at the beginning, you will soon get the hang
of it. Pay attention to the shallowness of your breaths and how it is at
the end of the class.

If your mind start to wander off, think about your breathing and try
to lengthen your inhalations and exhalations. The breathing techniques
used in yoga is the best way to calm your mind down.

6
YOU CAN SKIP A POSE
you are uncomfortable with.

There are different levels of yogis practicing in one class. If there are
poses that you do not understand or aren’t ready to try,
do not be afraid to skip it out.

Each person in your class has been in your shoes and your instructor
will completely understand if you need a break.
You can simply take a rest in a Child’s Pose and breathe. This will help
you regain your zen until you are ready for the next pose

ALLOW YOURSELF
7to be a beginner

As a beginner, it will be difficult for you to follow your instructor’s
pace. Regardless of whether it is too fast or too slow for you, trust
your instructor’s sequencing. Try your best to stay on track with the
rest of the class.

One more detail to expect is that some instructors are more hands on
than the others. This is common especially to the new yogis in the
class.

If you are not comfortable with adjustments by touching, you can
simply let your instructor know about it and the both of you can try
something different to work it out.

Beginning yoga
can be an amazing gift to yourself.
This practice lends itself to
numerous mental, physical and
spiritual benefits.

Embrace it with an open mind
and before you know it, you are already encouraging your
friends and family to join a class with you.