What to Know for Your First Yoga Class

Being brand new at anything can be pretty scary and intimidating. There are so many questions around what to do or expect. This can be especially true about yoga. At Bella Yoga we think that the hardest part is simply walking through the door! After that, we’ve got you. We’ll show you all you need to know and help guide you along the way. But until then, take a moment to read through the following tips. When you know a few basics about what to expect, you’ll feel more comfortable when you do step through that door and into your first class! And don’t forget about our New to Yoga Package designed specifically for the New Yoga Student.

 

Wear Comfortable Clothes that Are Not Too Loose

Most importantly, you will want to wear clothing that is comfortable. But be sure wear a shirt that isn’t too loose. Know that you will be exploring yoga postures that might have you bending over in all different kinds of ways. So that big, comfy t-shirt you love? It won’t feel as comfortable if it falls over your head when you are inverted in Downward Facing Dog Pose. A t-shirt is fine, as long as it has a tighter fit. You don’t have to buy any special kind of “yoga clothes,” that are sold everywhere these days, but you should wear something that will allow you to move comfortably and without wardrobe malfunction.

 

Barefoot Please

Yoga is practiced barefoot for a couple important reasons. When your feet are in direct contact with the ground you will be better able to truly feel how you are standing on your feet. You will notice where you place your weight, and you will be able find stability using the muscles of your feet. Socks are not recommended because you could slip during practice. Yoga mats are designed for bare feet and hands. As an example, if you are standing with your legs wide apart, in socks your feet would be more likely to slip outward.

 

Come with an Empty(ish) Stomach

It is best to practice yoga on an empty stomach. When the stomach is full, movements such as forward folds, twists, and inversions are not very comfortable. As a general rule, you can eat a snack or light meal two hours before class or a large meal four hours before class. That will ensure you are most comfortable during the practice. Drinking fluids before class, however, is recommended to keep you hydrated.

 

Turn Off All Devices

Or better yet, leave them (cell phones and smart watches) in the car. Your yoga practice is a time for you to focus just on yourself. When you walk into the studio, it’s an opportunity to leave the stresses, demands, and responsibilities of life at the door. We ask that all cell phones are turned off and smart watches are silenced.

 

Let Go of Judgment

The other students in your class will likely have a range of abilities. You may find that you feel self-conscious or insecure about how you are doing the poses. You may feel that you “look like a fool” from time to time. Please know that the other students are much more focused on their own practice and are not nearly as preoccupied about you as you might think. We are much more likely to be judging our own practice than that of others. That too, however, must be released. Each day your practice will be different. The poses will feel slightly different, you will be in a different mental and emotional place, and your body will respond to the practice differently as time goes on. Instead of placing judgment on your practice, simply notice what is happening in the moment as well as over time, and leave it at that.

 

Yoga will always be Practice

This is one of the most comforting, yet often overlooked aspects of yoga. You may find that your competitive nature comes out during yoga practice, but please remember that there is no final competition, no presentation, no “perfect” pose. You are practicing, and will always be practicing, yoga. Let that notion help take the pressure off that you should be practicing in any particular way. Listen to the cues of your body, and just keep practicing.

 

We can’t wait to meet you on the mat…