New to Yoga?
Here is a Guide to getting you started...
HOW TO START
Read through this page to give you an idea of what to expect from a class.
Then browse through our website to find a class. Each teacher has contact information next to their listing, so you can contact the teacher directly for more information about their schedule, location, pricing etc. Some teaches also have their own websites and you can click on the link in their listings to take you directly to their web page.
Then browse through our website to find a class. Each teacher has contact information next to their listing, so you can contact the teacher directly for more information about their schedule, location, pricing etc. Some teaches also have their own websites and you can click on the link in their listings to take you directly to their web page.
CHOOSING A CLASS
There are many styles of yoga and many reasons that people come to seek it. We have created a directory listing teachers in common categories to help you identify which classes may be best suited to your needs.
You can search by category under 'Find a Class'...
Or you can select 'Teacher Directory' to look through the full list of our members.
You can search by category under 'Find a Class'...
Or you can select 'Teacher Directory' to look through the full list of our members.
WHAT TO BRING
All you need to bring to class is yourself and a mat. Some studio's come equipped with mats you can use or rent. If you need to borrow a mat check with the studio before you attend class. (Please note that studios have had to revise their policies and follow new safety guidelines in light of the pandemic. Please check with with the studio / teacher regarding their new policies)
It is also recommended to bring your own bottle of water and a small towel.
At the conclusion of the class there is a quiet rest period called 'savasana'. Sometimes the body can cool down during this time, so you might like to make sure you have a long sleeved shirt or a shawl you can place over yourself.
It is also recommended to bring your own bottle of water and a small towel.
At the conclusion of the class there is a quiet rest period called 'savasana'. Sometimes the body can cool down during this time, so you might like to make sure you have a long sleeved shirt or a shawl you can place over yourself.
WHAT TO WEAR
Different classes will involve different levels of physical activity. For all classes, comfortable, loose clothing that is easy to move in is recommended.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR FIRST CLASS
Before class notify the teacher if you have any medical problems, or are pregnant. Ask the teacher any questions you might have, and tell him/her about any injuries or physical conditions he/she should know about. It is imperative we know if you are pregnant or are dealing with an acute injury.
Class will begin with an introduction and you might be invited into a few moments of quiet contemplation, or sometimes the teacher will share a poem or words of wisdom.
The next stage of the class will draw you into physical movement, and you will be guided through a series of postures, referred to as 'asanas' in the yogic practice.
The teacher will speak throughout the class guiding you verbally into each position. Some teachers may use hands on techniques (Please note that this practice will not be applied during the pandemic, in accordance with safely guidelines).
The final posture at the end of the class is a resting pose - we rest in a comfortable position for what we call 'savasana'. You will spend several minutes at rest in this position. This period may be silent, or there may be music playing or a guided meditation led by the teacher.
After savasana students are usually guided to a seated position where you may again take a few quiet moments of reflection. We close the practice with the tradition of bringing the hands together and bowing forward. Although often referred to as 'bringing your hands together in the prayer position' yoga is not a religion, and the hand position is a symbol of respect.
Each class will be very different, with different styles of yoga, but also with teachers each bringing something different to share with their students. Some classes will be interwoven with stories and wisdoms, some will focus more on alignment.
Class will begin with an introduction and you might be invited into a few moments of quiet contemplation, or sometimes the teacher will share a poem or words of wisdom.
The next stage of the class will draw you into physical movement, and you will be guided through a series of postures, referred to as 'asanas' in the yogic practice.
The teacher will speak throughout the class guiding you verbally into each position. Some teachers may use hands on techniques (Please note that this practice will not be applied during the pandemic, in accordance with safely guidelines).
The final posture at the end of the class is a resting pose - we rest in a comfortable position for what we call 'savasana'. You will spend several minutes at rest in this position. This period may be silent, or there may be music playing or a guided meditation led by the teacher.
After savasana students are usually guided to a seated position where you may again take a few quiet moments of reflection. We close the practice with the tradition of bringing the hands together and bowing forward. Although often referred to as 'bringing your hands together in the prayer position' yoga is not a religion, and the hand position is a symbol of respect.
Each class will be very different, with different styles of yoga, but also with teachers each bringing something different to share with their students. Some classes will be interwoven with stories and wisdoms, some will focus more on alignment.
CLASS ETIQUETTE
Remove your shoes before you enter the practice space. Some studios require you to leave your shoes at the entrance.
Often people are coming to practice for peace and restoration and for them that may begin before the class starts. Be aware of the energy when you enter the room as people may be resting quietly on their mats. Take your place in the room mindfully moving around others.
If you arrive late, again please be aware that others have begun their practice. Enter the room and take your place quietly. This enables others to continue their focus on the teachers instruction and stay focussed within their own practice.
Be aware of the space you take.
The same may be true for the duration of the class. Act in a way that acknowledges the scenenity of another's practice.
Avoid conversation; make sure your phone is switched off; if you have to exit the class do so in a mindful manner that avoids too much disturbance.
In order to keep disruptions to a minimum, please plan to arrive on time and stay for the entire class. If for some reason you need to leave early, please let the instructor know in advance. You are, of course, always welcome to enter and exit the studio (quietly, please) during class to use the restroom.
Often people are coming to practice for peace and restoration and for them that may begin before the class starts. Be aware of the energy when you enter the room as people may be resting quietly on their mats. Take your place in the room mindfully moving around others.
If you arrive late, again please be aware that others have begun their practice. Enter the room and take your place quietly. This enables others to continue their focus on the teachers instruction and stay focussed within their own practice.
Be aware of the space you take.
The same may be true for the duration of the class. Act in a way that acknowledges the scenenity of another's practice.
Avoid conversation; make sure your phone is switched off; if you have to exit the class do so in a mindful manner that avoids too much disturbance.
In order to keep disruptions to a minimum, please plan to arrive on time and stay for the entire class. If for some reason you need to leave early, please let the instructor know in advance. You are, of course, always welcome to enter and exit the studio (quietly, please) during class to use the restroom.
DO NOT COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS
It’s easy to fall into the comparison trap. But everybody's body is different, and everyone is at a different point in their practice. What one persons body will look like in a pose may vary deeply from the person next to them.
Yoga is a journey, not a destination. It's about learning and exploring through your own body and your own SELF. So enjoy focusing on what your body needs, and don't be too worried with what's going on on the next mat.
Yoga is a journey, not a destination. It's about learning and exploring through your own body and your own SELF. So enjoy focusing on what your body needs, and don't be too worried with what's going on on the next mat.
Still not sure what to do?
Contact us and we will do our best to give you advice and point you in the right direction - [email protected]