Start Yoga in 2017

Thinking of starting yoga in 2017?

A New Year! Plenty of fitness and wellness resolutions are made around this time of year. It’s a time of reflection that often leads to resolutions. Using the beginning of a new year as marker to track goals or change is helpful; we might begin make plans to better our lives, maybe change old habits, save a bit of money or look abroad for inspiration and new experiences.

It might be a time that you’re wanting to try something new, or get back to something you once enjoyed, maybe even thinking now is the perfect time to start yoga. And you’re right – it is! But where to begin? With a bit of research, you’ll be prepared for your first class in no time!

research

Find a convenient location

This might sound like a no – brainer, but finding a studio that is convenient for access makes it easier to you to commit to your goals! There are plenty of apps and websites for finding Yoga near you, or an old fashioned Google is just as good.
Think about your schedule when choosing a studio – is it better to find a studio close to home where you can swing by after work, or one closer to your workplace for a quick lunch time practice?

 Choose the Style that suits you

Iyengar, Bikram, Vinyasa Flow, Hatha, Yin, Ki, Kundalini, Jivamukti… the list goes on!
You might be feeling overwhelmed with the abundance of options out there. Fundamentally, any physical yoga practice is going to have similarities in the poses and with a bit of experimentation, you’ll find the one you gel with.
(Check out the very quick guide to Yoga styles here)

 Check the Timetable
Most studios offer early morning, lunch time and evening classes through out the week. Some will be offering classes 7 days a week and others may be Monday – Saturday only. Before you sign up, take the time to look at your commitments; make sure the timetable fits with your schedule.

Look for New Years and New Student deals
Many studios offer deals for New Students; such as a two week introductory pass or a month of unlimited yoga for a set price. These are great ways to try out the studio and explore the vibe there. There’s no obligation to sign up after the deal has expired, so if it doesn’t feel like the place for you, try somewhere new!

Chat to your Doctor
It is always a good idea consult your doctor or healthcare professional before embarking on any exercise program. This is extremely important if you have health concerns or serious injuries; so if you have high blood pressure, glaucoma, arthritis, spinal disk injuries, heart disease; or if you are pregnant.

So, you’ve done your research. You’ve found a studio in a great location, found a class time that suits you… now what? How do you prepare for your class, and what to expect once you get there?!

preparing for your class

Most studios will offer mat hire for a few dollars. Check the website or phone ahead. If not, bring your own along; and for a flow or hot yoga class be sure to take a bath sized towel along with you too.

Wear light, tight fitting clothing to ensure ease of movement; trust me when I say that being suffocated by your jumper is always distracting!
Ideally don’t eat a big meal at least two hours prior to class – nothing worse than indigestion in your uttanasana! A small snack like a banana will be fine, though it’s best to practice on an empty stomach.

While many bring a water bottle to class, most traditions will discourage drinking water during your practice. Instead, try to arrive well hydrated, and ensure that you drink plenty of water or herbal tea after your class.

what to expect
 

Get there early. Aim to arrive 10 – 15 minutes before class starts. This will give you time to get yourself set up, fill in any paperwork and advise the teacher of any injuries or health concerns you might have.

Take your shoes off at the door and stow them away. There should be a place for you to put your things away. This is also a good time to turn your phone off and keep it in your bag. Phones should not be taken into the room with you to ensure that everyone has a distraction free practice.

Be considerate of other students in the space. Set up quietly, don’t step on another’s mat and keep chatter for outside only.

Unroll your mat facing the instructor – look around to see how other students have placed their mats, or ask at the front desk. If you’re new, it’s often a good idea to set up towards the back as this lets you see what other students are doing – really helpful if you find yourself getting lost!

Some classes will require props like blocks or straps. This is usually indicated by the necessary props being set up on the teacher's mat. If you're unsure, you can ask before the class, though usually you will be reminded as the class is starting.

Many classes begin and end with a chant of ‘Aum’ but there’s no pressure for you to join in.

Adjustments often occur in class. A hands-on adjustment can help your alignment in a pose and doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong! If you prefer not to be touched, let your teacher know that too.

Breathe. Try to avoid holding your breath. Connecting with your breath is one of the most important parts of your practice, but when you’re new it may feel confusing and overwhelming.
Stay until the end – right through Savasana (‘Corpse Pose’). This final pose is time to assimilate the effects of your practice, calm your nervous system, settle your mind and bring your breath back to normal.

You might experience unexpected emotions throughout class – tears, anger, sadness. It’s all normal though it might come as a shock! Often physical releases can trigger emotional ones! Try not to judge any reaction; acknowledge it and let it be.

 after class

Once class is over, pack any props away neatly.

If you've hired a mat, most studios provide a spray bottle and cloth to clean the mat after class. Give it a spray and wipe and hang it up to dry in the designated area.

Ask questions! If you are unsure of any of the poses you learnt or have any concerns, then now is the time to approach your Teacher!

Drink plenty of water after class - especially vigorous styles of Yoga.

If you're new to yoga, you may experience muscle fatigue and soreness a day or two after class. You can ease this by taking a hot bath with Epsom salts.

Keep going! The effects of your practice should start to become noticeable after a few weeks. You can build your classes up over time, though like anything, the more you practice, the more progress you'll make.

Congratulations! You've taken the first steps into developing a dedicated Yoga Practice.