| As a yoga teacher it is always a pleasure when | | | | 4. The night before your class, check you have loose |
| potential students phone up and inquire about attending | | | | comfortable clothing, tracksuit, warm top, a blanket and |
| yoga classes. If it is their first class many students are | | | | yoga mat. Some yoga teachers will supply you with a |
| nervous and anxious. Can you remember what it felt | | | | blanket and/or yoga mat. But if you decide to continue |
| like to be a yoga beginner? Do you remember how | | | | your practice then it is more hygienic to buy your own |
| you felt? Were you nervous, excited or just glad to | | | | yoga mat. Plan your route, check out how long it will |
| have a quiet space to rest and relax? | | | | take to arrive, check out parking or bus/train |
| To get the most of out of your first Hatha yoga class | | | | timetables. The last thing you want is to be hassled |
| take a few minutes to read and digest the following | | | | about how to get to your yoga class. Aim to arrive at |
| six simple steps. | | | | least 10 minutes before the class starts so you can |
| Six Simple Steps to Enjoy Your First Yoga Class | | | | complete an initial medical/lifestyle questionnaire and |
| 1. Smile and be happy. You have made an important | | | | familiarize yourself with your surroundings. |
| investment in yourself. Your life is full and there are lots | | | | 5. On the day of your yoga class, try not to eat a |
| of demands on your time and energy. The fact you | | | | heavy meal at least 60 - 90 minutes before your class. |
| have made the decision to start yoga sends a subtle | | | | If coming straight from work, then a light snack, for |
| signal to your brain that life is about to change. You | | | | example fruit and a glass of water can be eaten. By |
| are taking the first step to regain control over your | | | | all means bring a light snack to eat after your class. |
| time and care for yourself. | | | | 6. Once you arrive at your yoga class, remember to |
| 2. Let friends and loved ones know when you are | | | | take your shoes off and leave them in the designated |
| going to your class. Remind them not to phone you as | | | | place. Most yoga studios/classes do not allow outdoor |
| you will not be able to answer during your class. Your | | | | shoes into the yoga space. |
| class can last between 60 - 90 minutes and after the | | | | 7. Introduce yourself to your yoga teacher. Smile at |
| class you may not feel like speaking to anyone straight | | | | your fellow yogis and relax and smile as you roll out |
| away. | | | | your mat. |
| 3. Check in with your yoga teacher before you attend | | | | Well done. You have taken the first step in taking a |
| the class. Have a telephone conversation or send her | | | | positive step towards caring for yourself. Yoga is a life |
| an email. If you have any particular concerns talk them | | | | line, a gift you give to yourself. So take your time and |
| over with your teacher and make sure all your | | | | enjoy your gift to the max. |
| questions are answered. | | | | |