10 Tips for Beginner Yogis
Trying new things can be intimidating. However, most times, if you think about it, they typically end up being fun! If you are thinking about heading over to your first yoga class, do it! Below are some tips for beginners that will help you acclimate quickly.
1. Arrive Early To Class
Getting there at least 15 minutes before class ensures that you are not going to feel the stress of running late. And running late on top of feeling nervous to start something new is a double whammy of stress. Don’t do that to yourself. Get there early and settle in!
2. Introduce Yourself To The Instructor
Definitely take the time to say hello to the instructor and tell them that you are new. They will not only appreciate it but they will also be able to help and tailor parts of the class to aid in your comfort.
3. Take a Front Seat
You will have a first-hand view of how to practice the poses correctly and safely. Furthermore, you won’t have any distractions in front of you and if there is a mirror in class, you will be able to see how your body adjusts while the instructor guides you.
4. Be Ok With “Out of Your Comfort Zone”
First of all, instructors won’t call on you during class for any reason. Secondly, being out of your comfort zone is a big step and you should be proud of yourself.
If the instructor says to chant Om, then chant Om and feel the sound coming out of your body. If you think about it, most people are listening to their own sound and not paying attention to how well anyone else is doing it. Chances are, more students than just you are a bit nervous to let their voice shine through!
5. Be Ok With Where You Are and Keep Your Focus Inward
This is a double play.
Be kind to yourself and know that where your body is right now is perfect. Being gentle towards your body will enable you to safely stretch your hamstrings so that you can touch your toes down the road. Every single body is unique and beautiful.
Keep your eyes on the four corners of your mat and keep your focus inward. Watching what someone else is doing doesn’t help because it’s not a competition. Everyone’s bodies are different and have different levels of flexibility. Pushing yourself because your neighbor is touching her nose to her thighs will ultimately lead to injury. You know what I mean?
6. Set An Intention
The instructor might offer an intention or introduce a theme for the class that you are welcome to accept. You are also free to set your own intention for class. For example, you may decide to focus on your breath or to practice not judging yourself throughout the class and beyond. You can set your intention on a person, a place, or a thing that you would like to send energy to. Whatever the intention, bring it to the forefront of your mind when it starts to slip away. When you practice with a purpose, it brings light into everything you do.
7. Listen, Listen, Listen
Listen to the cues from the instructor. These cues will help guide you into each pose safely so you can receive the proper benefits of each one. The instructors are watching bodies all throughout class. If they notice someone isn’t doing something, they will repeat it and/or come over and gently adjust you.
8. Take Breaks If You Need To
Take Breaks. There is a fine line between pushing yourself to a safe limit and not really feeling like it deep down. However, when you truly need to take a break, take one. Childs pose is frequently offered to you whenever you need it to regroup and reconnect with your breath and intention before you rejoin the class. Be gentle to your body and take a break when it truly calls for it.
9. Enjoy Savasana
Beginners tend to overthink during this pose because it’s hard to stop thinking. If thoughts come into your mind, it’s ok! Notice them and let them float right back out from where they came from. Keep repeating that as many time as necessary. Release every single bone, muscle, and ligament, feel grounded, let your jaw relax as the tongue comes off of the roof of your mouth. Maybe your lips slightly open. Take this time for a quiet meditation (which doesn’t happen often right?) or for a full body scan from head to toe. Everyone’s eyes are closed so nobody can see you! Relax, and let your body take in all the benefits of the practice.
10. Ask Questions After Class
If something didn’t feel right, if something didn’t make sense, if something was incredible – SAY IT! Instructors are there after class for that exact reason. They want to make certain that your experience was well received and beneficial to your mind, body, and spirit. They also always want to know what you loved so they can share it with others! 🙂
Bonus: Spend The Rest Of The Day Enjoying The Openness You Just Created
You may have to go back to a crazy life after that hour of zen but it doesn’t have to be that way. Spend the rest of the day carrying over the sense of clarity, calmness, and openness you just created. It will not only be good for you but also for all the others whom you come into contact with, therefore, sharing yoga!
