Tips for Beginners

“You’ve got to be a beginner before you can be anything else”

Starting anything new can be a bit daunting.

It can take you out of your comfort zone and make you feel a bit vulnerable. Starting yoga is no different.

I remember feeling a bit apprehensive before my first yoga class. After hearing about all of the physical and mental benefits of practicing yoga I couldn’t wait to get started, but I had no idea what to do when I arrived at the studio, nor what to expect from the class.

I hear from many clients go through a similar experience so here are a few tips to make your yoga experience a good one.

Arrive early

Save yourself the stress of running in last minute and give yourself plenty of time to get to class. Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early so you can find out where everything is and get comfortable. We always have the kettle boiled and ready to go so you can make a tea and relax.

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Shoes off

Yoga is done bare foot and wearing shoes beyond the Reception area of a studio is a no no (socks are fine while you’re settling in!). If in doubt as to where to leave them, just slide your shoes off at the door and ask.

Chat to the teacher

Let the teacher know that you are a beginner! We are there to look out for you and make your yoga experience a great one. If we know that you are just starting out we can show you around the studio and offer you modifications for various poses during class. It’s also important to let the teacher know about any injuries or health issues that you may have before class so we are aware of what we need to include (or exclude for you).

Ladies, if you are pregnant, please tell the teacher before class starts so they can make the appropriate adjustments for you.

Equipment

Most studios provide what you need for classes. We have all the equipment laid out for you when you arrive so you can just relax. If you plan on doing several classes a week, it pays to invest in your own mat and to bring it with you to classes. Once you arrive in the studio, choose your spot and relax.

On the mat

Its tempting to go right to the back of the room when you aren’t sure what you are doing, but I’d recommend picking a mat space in the front or middle of the room. That way you have a good view of the teacher so you can watch them demo the poses and movements. Once you have all of your equipment laid out, lie down/sit down on your mat and relax! The teacher will let you know what pose to start in and what to do, so until then you can chill out.

Bring an open mind & enjoy

Just go with the flow! The movements and poses will be unfamiliar and you might not understand everything the teacher says first time round, but it doesn’t matter! It gets easier the more you practice.

We are there to learn, to move and to breathe. No one is judging your flexibility or strength, in fact most people are totally caught up in what they are doing on their own mat!

Join us Sunday morning for our drop-in Beginners Classes :-)