Walking into your first Yoga class can seem intimidating.
Even though you really want to join a class, it’s so easy to come up with an excuse and talk yourself out of it.
I still feel nervous joining a new class or meeting a new teacher when I'm travelling or studying on a training course..and I've been practising for over 20 years.
COMMON EXCUSES AND CONCERNS
What will everyone be wearing?
“I don’t have the “right gear”.”
Who will be there?
“Everyone will know each others and I will feel left out.”
I won’t be able to do it?
“I can’t touch my toes”
I’m worried I will embarrass myself?
“What if I fall over, start laughing or worst of all break wind!!!”(it happens to us all)
Let me reassure you.
You are not alone, everyone feels just like you.
What I can promise you is....
Without exception everyone is lovely, friendly, welcoming and supportive.
There is a wide range of ages and abilities.
The main reason for joining a class is to improve flexibility. It's not unusual at all that you can’t touch your toes when you start.
You will learn something new in every single class, everyone, including the teacher is a beginner, you are not on your own.
The venues I choose are quiet, warm, calming beautiful spaces. No draughty church halls or noisy gyms to distract us ( 'what on earth are they doing next door ? ')
You will leave the class uplifted, relaxed, renewed and feeling so much better than when you arrived..and in no time with a new group of yoga friends.
WHAT WILL I NEED?
Comfy clothes that you can move freely in. No fancy gear needed.
A yoga mat. It is important you are safe and a non-slip mat is essential. I can lend you one if you are unsure.
A blanket. Useful if you have delicate knees or to make you more comfortable and snuggly for relaxation.
We sometimes use props to support our practice and these will be provided.
WHAT HAPPENS?
Every class is different but follows a pattern.
We usually begin lying or seated and spend some time just arriving, checking in with how we feel and then some simple breathe awareness.
The main part of the class will focus on both strengthening and mobilising practices. Some times we move with the breath, sometimes we hold poses for several breaths and perhaps focus on refining a particular pose.
The class ends with some gentle stretching and always a gorgeous relaxation practice. There's no rush to dash off after class and there's always time for a chat.
Social media posts of perfect bodies in perfect poses is not a true representation of a regular class. A class should be an invitation to switch off, move your body and feel good and a teacher, using the words "perhaps" or "maybe" is a good start.
So, if you are new to Yoga or simply just 'got out of the habit' but you really want to get back to class and feel better, do it now.
Carpe Diem!
I will be so pleased to see you and welcome you into the wonderful world of Yoga.
For more information or to book a class please use the link below.