About 10 years ago, I went to my very first yoga class, totally unsure what to expect.
Was I the yoga jot down?
What did that even mean?
Did I have to start drinking green tea and meditating?
Would I be able to do the poses without pulling a muscle?
That was a long time ago when yoga stereotypes were more abundant.
You won’t nail all of the poses
And no one expects you to!
You’re going to feel the burn and twist your body into positions that feel foreign to you.
If you’re unsure about how to do a pose, pay attention to your instructor or neighbor.
They’re the experts.
They aren’t going to make fun of you for not knowing how to do something.
And if they do, they shouldn’t be an instructor because that’s rude.
If you have questions, ask them!
Don’t be worried about looking silly or feeling badly for not knowing what to do.
It makes a huge difference.
Sure, we breathe all day, every day.
But yoga requires a very methodic and mindful way of breathing called pranayama.
Often, you’ll hold your breath for several seconds or do a long exhale.
This all serves a purpose.
Not all classes are created equal
Do not start off with aHot Power Yogasession as a beginner.
Hot yoga classes involve a fast-paced and intense flow in a 90-degree room.
When you’re just starting off, hit a basic flow class or a relaxation class.
Try out a few types of classes to figure out what you like best.
It’s a major yoga tradition, but what does it mean?
Namaste means “I bow to you” and is seen as a gesture of respect and gratitude.
It creates a bond between you, your instructor, your classmates, and fellow yogis.
Typically, Namaste is accompanied by putting your palms together at your heart and bowing.
But you do need to wear something comfy and stretchy for yoga.
You don’t want to get mat burn during your first class.
Some people like wearing loose, flowy tops.
Others prefer tight workout tanks.
It’s up to you, just check that you could comfortably move in whatever you’re wearing.
But if you’re just trying yoga out, it’s possible for you to hold off.
Most studios and gyms provide free mats or have them available to rent.
Call the place you’re going to confirm just in case!
you’re able to take sips of water between poses, don’t worry.
Many people keep water bottles at the front of their mat so they can drink during class.
You kneel on the mat, knees separated and toes together, with your arms laid out behind you.
No one will judge you for taking a break.
I’ve even spent a whole class in Child’s Pose because I needed to have a moment.
Maybe you’ll go to a class every now and then.
Maybe you’ll get into a routine practice.
Maybe you’ll become an instructor one day.
Or maybe you’ll decide yoga isn’t for you, and that’s okay.
Hopefully, you’re prepared for your first class so you could give it a solid shot.
