Joining a yoga class for the first time can be a little intimidating to some. The environment can be a little different and the steps are quite unfamiliar. However, once you get to experience and know yoga, even more, it is a great way to replenish your mind, body, and spirit. It will allow you to discover your potentials and overcome your ego.
Here are 5 tips on how you can survive in attending your first yoga class.
1. Look for the right class for you.
There are a lot of yoga classes you can enroll in depending on your preferences. There are yoga classes that are slow, fast-paced, gym-type, or muscle-burning flow classes. There are also types of classes that are purely for meditation. Find what type of yoga class you are looking for and then look for a studio who offers these classes. If you don’t know what you are looking for yet, you can try different styles so you can experience which one is best for you. You can also check for recommendations from friends or do a little bit of research which type of yoga class works for you.
2. Gear up and wear the right attire.
Most studios can provide yoga mat rentals which is great if you do not want to invest in your own yoga mat first. However, in the long run, it would be best to invest in your own equipment. Most importantly, wear the right type of clothes when joining a yoga class in order to be comfortable. Wear something that is non-constrictive. You can wear a simple tank top and yoga pants for starters.
3. Inform the yoga instructor that it is your first time.
It is important that you inform your yoga teacher that it is your first time to join a yoga class, most especially if it is a mixed class and not solely for beginners. If the teacher knows it is your first time, they will be introducing you first what yoga is all about, specific yoga poses and terms, as well as the benefits you will get in the class. This way, they will also know how to teach you the proper way of doing a certain yoga pose.
4. Focus on yourself.
When joining a yoga class for the first time, you might get the notion that you will be judged by the people around you. Practicing yoga is all about rediscovering and focusing on you. Turn off your inhibitions and just listen to the yoga teacher. Do not be intimidated, but rather, focus on your own improvement.
5. Do not force yourself.
One of the things that you need to keep in mind is that you do not have to do achieve all the yoga poses if your body cannot do it. Do not force yourself to do difficult variations on your first time. Remember; you are practicing yoga to properly benefit your body. When you are ready, you will be able to discover your potential and eventually execute several yoga poses. Do it one step at a time.
Disclosure: Guest Post
Photo Credit: Tantra Yoga Thailand