Yoga has been around for thousands of years. It's been practiced in spiritual settings as a form of meditation, incorporated into gym classes, done on mountain sides and even in the space of one's own home. In recent years, yoga has even become a favorite pastime at work! You don't need to develop a yogi lifestyle to enjoy the many benefits of the practice. For those who are new to this spiritual and physical practice, there are several things you should know about your first yoga class at Red Lotus Yoga.
Experience Your First Yoga Class
The most important thing you need to know about a yoga class is you are welcome. As a rule, yoga is inclusive and inviting. As you enter your first class, expect classmates to say hello and expect your instructor to welcome you with open arms.
- Leave your cell phone off or on silent and in another room. Yoga is a serene and spiritual practice. Don't bring the outside world in with you. Give others in your class the chance at relaxation and meditation they are seeking.
- Wear something comfortable and appropriate. Read the class descriptions as to room temp and physicality to help you decide what to wear. As a guideline wear something you can move and bend in freely and that won't make a lot of noise as you shift from one pose to another.
- In class we observe silence as much as possible. In addition to being a form of fitness it is a method of stress management. Give others in the class the chance to relax and engage in meditation during the class.
Let your yoga instructor know this is your first class. Explain to them any physical limitations like knee, back or neck pain. Invite him or her to assist your poses as needed during the course. It's the best way to prevent injury. If you are still nervous, go ahead and take a spot in the back of the class. As your instructor announces the next pose, stall half a second and wait for others to enter it. You can always follow the lead of other members of the class until you feel more confident.
If at any point you are feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to yourself and enter a relaxing pose. This will give you a chance to relax your muscles and reset your mind so you can start again and enjoy the spiritual and physical benefits of the practice.