Yoga is one of the most popular activities in the United
States. People from all walks of life are delving into the
mysteries of this ancient discipline. If you have never
done yoga before, where do you begin? Below you will find a
few thoughts on how to get your practice started.





Yoga = Commitment:
The
commitment is to yourself and just like any other
commitment; this one requires time and sustained
effort. Think of yoga as a long-term investment in your
physical and mental well-being. To fully realize the
return on your investment you will need to make yoga a
regular part of your life ritual. Plan ahead and make
space and time in your schedule for your yoga practice.
Set
yourself up for success:
With
yoga growing in popularity, there are numerous classes,
studios and teachers from which to choose. Do your
homework! Read about the different styles. Research the
studios in your area. Then choose a location you think
works for you. Convenience can often play a role in
your long-term success. Attending a class near your
home or workplace can make your life less complex.
However, finding the right yoga community and a teacher
with whom you can connect is equally important!
Experiment:
If
you have multiple choices…sample more than one.
Keep your mind open and experiment with different
teachers and studios. If all goes well, you should find
a supportive and challenging environment within which
to explore yourself. At the very minimum the facility
should be clean and the instructor clear and
motivating.
Communication
is key:
The
first time you try yoga it may feel strange foreign or
overwhelming. Communicating with the instructor via
email, over the phone or in person, before a class, can
alleviate some of the awkwardness. Let the instructor
know where you are…”its my first time to
the studio,” “I have never done yoga
before,” etc. Let the teacher know about any
physical limitations or areas of concern before the
class gets started. If the instructor does hands on
adjustments during class, be sure to communicate with
him/her when you have been pushed to your edge.
Finally, expect clear communication in return. A good
instructor will take the time to listen to your
questions and offer you thoughtful, accurate responses
in return. Personal attention from a qualified
instructor is often key in developing a sound yoga
practice…overly large classes where you
don’t get much individual focus are probably not
in your best interest. Finally, it's ok to feel
challenged during your first class...most people do.
Reflection:
What
was the experience like? How do you feel physically?
How do you feel emotionally and psychologically? Do you
feel different than when the class started? If so, how?
These are all important questions to ask yourself after
your first class. Take the time to write down any
questions that come to mind. Reflect on how you feel
again the next day. It’s very likely you will
experience some muscle soreness and possibly even feel
tighter than before taking the class. This is a good
indication you need to head back to another class ASAP.
Be clear about the difference between soreness and
pain. Do your best to steer clear of pain that limits
your range of motion or which seems to be persistent. A
well-trained instructor should be able to offer you
alternative postures or modifications to help alleviate
injuries or pain. Again, it is important that you
return to a class as soon as possible and communicate
with the instructor.
Have
fun:
Don’t
take yourself or your practice too seriously. Approach
your practice with the wonder of a child. Have fun and
enjoy what you can do.
Yoga Do's & Don'ts
1. A full stomach can make for a very uncomfortable
yoga practice! It’s a really good idea to give
your-self 2-3 hours of digestion between a substantial
meal and your yoga practice. If eating is required
before you practice, try to eat light. Fruit is one of
the most easily digested foods around.
2.
Hydrate! Drink plenty of water throughout the day. You
will know you are well hydrated when your urine runs
clear. Be sure to replace your fluids after or during
the class. Respiration alone during a yoga practice can
leave you dehydrated.
3.
Don’t wear perfume or cologne.
4.
Bring cash or a check to your first class…the
studio may not take credit cards. Bring your own towel,
water and mat or be prepared to pay for them.
5. Wear comfortable clothing that you’re not
going to get wound up in.
6. Try not to judge yourself or others. Fat, thin, old,
young, tall, short, straight, gay…everyone can
do yoga…be respectful of the diversity around
you and more importantly try to stay focused on you.
7. Relax! Yoga is from India…it may feel foreign
to you at first. You might be asked to chant or
expected to breath in some funky way. Relax and allow
yourself to get involved.
8. A vigorous practice can mean depleted glycogen
stores. Glycogen fuels the muscles giving us energy.
Eating a complex carbohydrate within 1 hour after
practicing will help replenish your glycogen.
Namaste, John Merideth • Founder/Director • onlYoga