New to yoga? I once was too! And I remember having a lot of questions and fears about going to my first yoga class. Here are some questions that I remember having, and questions that I think could potentially come up for a new student. You may still have questions after reading this, and I encourage you to please reach out via the connect button in the navigation bar of my website. Happy reading, and yay for you for considering coming to a class!

What do I wear? Anything you want! More specifically, anything you feel comfortable in and feel as though you can move around in. You do not need to have fancy yoga pants- sweatpants work great! It’s really about feeling comfortable. I personally like to wear a sweater of some sort over a workout t-shirt or tank top because I like to have the option to take a layer off or put a layer on. You can keep your socks on during class if that makes you more comfortable, but bare feet do make for better stability.

What do I need to bring? Your comfy clothes, a yoga mat if you have one (if not, send me a message because I may have an extra for you, or could provide tips for finding a great mat to purchase), a water bottle, a hand towel if you are prone to sweaty hands, and lastly, an open mind! Yoga props needed for class will be provided, with instructions on how to use them.

Should I show up to class early? If it is your first class, please show up 20 minutes early so you can fill out a standard liability form and to let me know if you have any existing conditions/injuries that I should be aware of. This will also give you time to ask me any questions. In general, showing up 10-15 minutes early is great so you have time to grab your props, roll out your mat, and get settled.

What if I am not flexible? Welcome to the club! Flexibility is not a prerequisite to yoga and therefore should not be a deterrent. Yoga is a practice of connecting to our bodies and listening to our limitations. Yoga is not about pushing or striving, although through practice, you will begin to feel into your edges and get comfortable there.

What if I have a pre-existing injury or health condition? The main intentions for my yoga classes are health and safety. Please consult your physician or healthcare provider before starting a yoga practice. Also, please be sure to let me know about any existing (or new) injuries or health conditions before we practice. I will be able to help guide you to the props that can assist you, or let you know if something should be avoided. Most importantly, listen to your body…it holds infinite wisdom!

Can I practice while pregnant? Absolutely! Yoga can be a wonderful experience for expectant mothers. Again, this is a great time to check in with your doctor ahead of time to get the go-ahead and a great time to let me know which trimester your are in so I can adjust my instructions accordingly.

What is yoga? Yoga is an ancient healing system which connects the body, mind, and spirit. Yoga is an opportunity for you to become aware of and deepen your breath. It is a way to free the mind and body of negative energies and to bring harmony. Yoga is not: competitive, only for a certain group of people, or about twisting into a pretzel shape. It is the opportunity to leave your day at the door and drop into a space of connection and healing. Sometimes that might literally mean laying on your mat for the entire class and not moving. The main thing that you show up- as you are, in your body as it is.