Useful info
Prepare For Your First Class
If possible try not eat 3-4hrs before a class, if you have too, eat something light and small, you don’t want to go upside down with a full tummy.
Hydrate with water, drink often and small, you can bring a bottle to class, however you don’t want to do Yoga with a full bladder or be running to the loo.
Arrive early and introduce yourself to the teacher, inform them of any ailments or impairments that you think they should know about.
Find a space and roll out your mat, place any props close by and store bags and outdoor clothing in a safe place.
Switch your phones ringer off.
Equipment - What You'll Need
You don’t need a lot of equipment to do Yoga, however there is one must, and that is a mat. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but try and get a non slip one, around 3 – 5mm thick.
Wear comfortable, loose or stretchy clothing, bring a blanket or a jacket to keep you warm during relaxation.
Yoga is best done in bare feet, however you can keep your socks on if you’re feeling foot shy.
I use a block for sitting on and bricks for balance, and would recommend them for anyone starting out, as they help to make certain poses achievable or more comfortable.
There are lots of Yoga props available these days, if you turn up with the above you won’t go wrong and you can always add to your collection as you go.
Bring an open mind to your Yoga class
What to Expect in Class
You’ve made the decision to go to your first Yoga class, my advice is to approach it with an open mind and enjoy the experience. That’s easier said than done, as you’ll most likely be nervous and you’ll be looking around to see what everyone else is doing and wondering how they got into that weird position. You’ll want to hide towards the back of the class, however I’d advise that you arrange your mat space so that you can see the teacher and they can see you. Try to avoid watching other students and allow the teacher to lead you into poses. Follow any modifications given and use your props, don’t over strain or push yourself too hard, Yoga’s not a competition. If you’re feeling a bit overcome or out of breath, take yourself down on to your mat and lie on you back or in “Childs” pose. The teacher will enquire on how you’re feeling and you can rejoin the class when you feel ready.
Your teacher will either start the class sitting or with some gentle standing poses, these are designed to draw your attention towards your breath and hopefully quieten your mind. Your class will also include forward and backbends and some twists, each session will be designed to flow and should be easy to follow by watching your teacher. There may be some poses which are more challenging, the teacher will break these down and offer modifications, do not feel pressured in to going beyond your ability on the day. Every class should offer the opportunity for you to invert in some way, however there is no pressure to do so. If you’re comfortable, you should simply raise your legs up against a wall.
Towards the end of your class, your teacher will start to wind you down as you prepare for the best part, relaxation. All the previous poses are designed to stretch, twist, turn and soften your body and allow you to rest and be still as you lie on your mat. You may find this strange at first, bear with it, soften or close your eyes and look towards your breath, be guided by your teacher as you truly let go. Your teacher may finish the class by chanting or saying OM Shanti, you are welcome to join in or just listen.
What to Expect After Your Class
Physically, You’ll probably be a little sore after your first class, Yoga tends to stretch and work muscles that aren’t often used; even if you do other sports. You might even be a bit perplexed as to why the person next to you could do things you found impossible and make it all look so easy.
Mentally, you might experience a “Yoga high” or “buzz” after your class, perhaps the best you’ve felt all day. A calm but energised, relaxed yet strong state of wellbeing. Most students say that they get the best nights sleep after a Yoga class, especially an evening class.
Your first class will feel totally different from anything you’ve done before, and its best to give yourself 4 to 5 weeks before deciding if it’s for you or not. If it’s not, it may just be that, that particular style of Yoga or class, with that teacher wasn’t for you at this time of your life. Your teacher won’t be disappointed if you opt to explore other classes, in fact they may point you towards a more suitable class.
What are the benefits of Yoga
The physical and psychological benefits of doing a regular yoga practice are numerous. Not only will it improve your flexibility, your range of movement and muscle strength; it will strengthen your bone density, improve your posture and in turn your confidence and self esteem. Yoga improves your balance and your body’s ability to sense itself in motion and in space.
Yoga stimulates the circulation of blood around your body and helps strengthen and condition your heart. It also drains your lymphs, regulates your adrenal glands and drops your blood pressure. The breathing practices (Pranayama) improve your lung function and increases the intake of oxygen in your blood and cells. Pranayama also improves your bodies metabolism and soothes your nervous system.
Yoga and its meditation practices are proven to help reduce anxiety, lifting your mood and helping with your mental wellbeing. Yoga releases tension in your limbs and relaxes your body, most people report getting their best sleep after a Yoga class. Basically Yoga makes you feel happy.