Yoga?

[ClandestineAdulation]

I’m starting a yoga class this evening, having never done any before! It’s a beginners class so I feel comfortable with that.

Does anyone have any tips, what not to do or what to expect?

Thanks!

Yoga is great - hope you enjoy your class! No tips other than wear comfortable clothing, and remember to breathe. Not joking - took me a while to realise I'd hold my breath when holding poses. Not helpful. I'm sure the instructor will explain everything, as it's a beginners class.

What type of yoga (if it's stated?)

You will learn how to breathe differently. I do Fit and Flow yoga and love it. It’s good for helping with core strength (as is Pilates). and balance.

And, as you probably know, it's great for improving strength and flexibility.

As a yoga teacher I would just suggest letting go and enjoying it.
Don't feel pressured to push yourself into postures that aren't right for you. Think of it as an exploration of where you are.
And yes, breathe. And smile.

Do remember that there are many different styles and teachers, if this class tonight isn't for you for whatever reason try a different style, pace or teacher.

Enjoy

Thank you! It hasn’t specified what type of yoga, just beginners and back to basics!

It says I need to bring socks and a blanket for relaxation but I’ve forgotten them 🤦🏻‍♀️ How important is this?!

Depends how warm the room is - I tend not to use socks or a blanket except in the depths of winter. So you will probably be fine without.

If you have a good teacher, they should explain how to do the poses and how to do adjustments if required - we all have different bodies, and we can't all reach hands up behind our backs and so on, and that's okay. Some days, I am totally rubbish at balancing, other days, I can stand on one foot no problem. It's a different experience every time. A class designed for beginners should mean you're told how to do different poses, not just that you'll do warrior two or downward facing dog with no explanation. Also, the teacher may want to physically adjust your pose, but they should not do this without asking for permission, and it's okay for you to say no, if you wouldn't be comfortable with it.

Have fun!

You'll be fine without blankets or socks, I'm sure.

I've started going to yoga here in China recently. I can only really understand a few very basic things the teacher says, but it's fine! Yoga is a very generous and kind space.

A beginners and back to basics sounds a perfect place to start. (And return and also stay if you like it )
The teacher should explain things as you go along and also give you time to explore the postures safely.
You are in charge of your body, you are being given guidance and suggestions. If something feels wrong or too much step back and take it easier, the teacher should keep encouraging that.

And yes, absolutely if you don't want to be adjusted or even touched it's perfectly okay to say so. A good teacher will not mind in the slightest. You can always stick with verbal cues if you'd rather.

As mentioned above, yoga is a kind space, so remember to be kind to yourself.

Forgetting your socks and blanket is fine, if you mention it when you arrive there may be extras you can borrow especially if in a well equipped studio, or if in a hall then the teacher may just have an extra blanket or two. But you will be fine without too.

I look forward to hearing how you get on, if you feel like sharing.

How did the class go, Clandestine?

For my first few classes I always tried to sit behind the same lady who really seemed experienced (later found out she was in fact another teacher, so I made right decision). Don’t expect too much of yourself to begin with, as long as you enjoy the class you are on the right track.
Breathe, smile and have fun.

Don't push yourself too hard. Your muscles need time to adjust to the stretches.
Don't forget to breathe and relax.

Just realised I never updated!

I really enjoyed the class but I am terrible at breathing! Looking forward to class again on Monday!!

Hooray! I'm so glad you liked it! The breathing is super hard, imo.

Have you tried any of the Yoga With Adriene YouTube videos? They're lovely and gentle and helped me build up enough confidence to go to real classes. They might help you with your breathing.

Yes I have RacheyCat! I’m finding them helpful. I’m asthmatic though so breathing is generally a bit difficult anyway, it’s just something I’ll have to learn properly!

I started yoga a few months ago and i love it. I am terrible at it though. The teacher has become one of my favourite people, she's amazing and even came to a physio session with me!

Expect to sweat more than you think you will
Don't wear a baggy t shirt. It will end up bunched up round your head
You will do a lot of down dog. You will hate it. It will hurt your wrists. Key is to push up through your bum and put the weight in your feet
Do your best every time and every time you will see an advancement
Don't compare to anyone else
Tell the instructor you are new to yoga. If she gives you modifications grasp them. In a few weeks you won't need those modifications
Don't wear socks or you will slip around. Maybe for savasana (end relaxation)
The 5 mins savasana will freak you out. Go with it. Everyone is still and quiet. It's a lovely thing but if you're new it's a bit weird. You'll be there lying in a room in silence with x number of others.
Expect to say Namaste at the end in unison. Pronounced Na Mah Stay Confers thanks to your teacher and your other yogis.

Have fun!