Yoga is a beautiful way to learn how to stay centered and internally balanced while simultaneously improving muscle tone, circulation, mobility and mental health. Those of you opting to take beginners yoga classes might be wondering if there is anything you need to organize or sort out before that first class. Understandable!
10 Amazing Tips
It is perfectly normal to want to be prepared for whatever you’re getting into. If you’re feeling some of that beginners’ panic, don’t worry! We’ve got ten superb tips to give you the information you need to have a smashing first (or second and third) yoga class!
Stay Light
The first thing you want to remember about yoga is that it is done best on an empty stomach. We’re not saying starve yourself and go to class with hunger pangs. Just avoid eating too much before class. Don’t go to class with a stomach full on undigested food. It’ll mess with your yoga! If you do eat, make sure you do so a good hour and a half before you need to hit the mat.
Early Bird
It’s never fun rushing into class and jumping in to a flow mid-way. Yoga is about tranquility among other things so you want to be in the right headspace too. Opt to get to class ten minutes before it begins so you may ease down, distress and get into the zone!
Stretch
Many yoga instructors will ask you to stretch a little before you begin. Some might not. Try get in a few stretches to loosen those muscles up before class begins. It always makes for a better session!
Sort Out a Mat
Some gyms and studios provide their students with mats or rent them out. Others might require that you bring your own. Make sure what the mat policy is and ensure you have one regardless of how. A mat to yoga is like sneakers to basketball. Sure, you could do a lot without it but it would be painful and limiting!
Dress Right
Many might want to hit the gym in the latest lycras and designer gear. Unnecessary. The only thing you need to prioritize during your yoga class is mobility and comfort. Wear something that will allow maximum movement. Also make sure you’re completely easy and comfortable wearing what you’re wearing!
Breathing is Key
There are many forms of yoga with varying specific benefits as well as a number of across the board general ones. One thing common to all forms of yoga, be they relaxed or high tension is breathing. Start by being mindful of your breath. The rest will follow!
Mind Your Own Business
Try not to get into what other people are doing or not doing. Focus on your core, your breath, your pose and your position. That’s what’s important. If you need to focus on anyone but yourself it should be your instructor. Let others do their thing and trust that they will let you do the same!
Take Your Time
There might be things you find difficult or even impossible. Don’t let them bring you down. Remember you’re new to the discipline and it will take practice for you to achieve certain complex poses. Don’t rush. Take your time to get where you feel you want to be.
Practice at Home
If you feel you’re completely out of shape and need to work on your breathing or certain moves, take out a few minutes to practice at home. Home practices will help reinforce what you do in class and help you improve faster.
Connect With Your Instructor
You are new to the discipline and the instructor is there to guide you. Don’t be shy! If you feel something is too difficult, feel any pain or simply want advice on how to better your practice, check in with your instructor!
Upshot
The thing about yoga is the more you do it, the better you get at it; the better you get, the more fun it becomes! If you’re looking for intermediate or beginner’s yoga classes in NYC, we’ve got you covered. Check out our class schedules or give us a shout for more info! Good luck with your practice!
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