By S. Kate Hobbs
Yoga can be a rewarding and relaxing form of exercise, but many who wish to try it are scared to enter a yoga class for the first time. Thoughts of looking foolish while trying to strike unheard of positions or concerns over the spiritual side of the technique weigh heavily on first timers.
Knowing what to expect before you begin your journey into yoga can help you remain calm as you take your fist class.
Getting Ready
Dressing appropriately for your class will make your first experience more rewarding. If you have long hair, tie it back in a ponytail or bun. You will have it in your face the entire time if you don't. Wear comfortable clothing to your first class. It can be loose or tight, depending on your comfort level. Make sure the clothes will stay where you want them, because you do not want to spend the entire class pulling on your clothing and distracting yourself. Remember that you may not always be standing or sitting upright, so make sure the clothes will stay where you want them.
Arrival
When you arrive at the yoga studio, you will need to check in. if you have not paid for your class, you will need to do so at this time. Let the attendant know that you are new to yoga, so they can show you around and help you get comfortable. Before you enter the actual studio, you will be asked to remove your shoes. Socks are acceptable, but not necessary. You may find that your feet are too slippery if you wear socks.
The Class
Each teacher has his or her own approach to the yoga class, and the type of class you chose will also affect how the class proceeds, but most likely the class will begin with a centering exercise.
This may involve chanting the sound of "OM." You do not have to do this if you feel awkward, but you can listen to your classmates and help clear your mind and focus on the task at hand.
The next step is a series of gentle warm-ups and stretches to get your body and mind ready for what is to come. Once you are warmed up, the teacher will guide you through the exercises and postures. These will often be combined with breathing to create flow, which is the flow of energy through the body to create a feeling of wellness.
The entire class lasts about an hour. At the end, you will be guided through a cooling down series of exercises. The final cool down is a relaxation that involves laying on your back, eyes closed, and body relaxed. Do not skip this, because it is a very important part of the class and the yoga process. Sometimes the class will end with another OM and the words "Namaste" or "Jai Bhagwan," which is a salutation of honor. At this time, the class is over.
Yoga Etiquette
You may wonder how to be polite during your Yoga session. Proper yoga etiquette will make your experience as positive as possible. Always stay until the end of the class, even if you feel uncomfortable. You may not return, but it is considered rude to leave in the middle. Sometimes you are experiencing discomfort because of your body's poor physical condition or the fact that you are not used to getting into a clam state.
At the end of the class, avoid talking, as others are enjoying their meditative calm. If you wish to have a conversation, do so outside of the studio. Stay calm, still, and quiet during the class, and listen to your teacher's instructions, as they are designed to keep you safe throughout the routines. Remember, you may feel uncomfortable during your first yoga session, but if you stick with it, you will enjoy greater wellness and overall health and well being as a result.
Going to your first yoga class can be exciting and scary. Don't worry - the yoga instructor will happily help you with any pose you aren't sure of or comfortable with. Just remember that everyone at the yoga class is there to learn to deepen their poses and relax listening to meditation music - just like you.
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posted by Cheryl Levesque @ 7:06 PM
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