5 Tips For Your First Yoga Class

Trying something new can be extremely intimidating. But doing something you've never done can also be really exciting, especially when you know a little bit about what to expect. 

If you're interested in trying yoga but apprhensive to take your first class, you're not alone. We've all been there, it can be hard to step out of your comfort zone. The benefits waiting on the other side of taking the leap, however, are well worth overcoming any hesitation you might have. 

Consider the following tips for your first yoga class written personally for you if you're ready to get your yoga on in-person. The best thing about going to your first class?  You only have to do it once.

Top 5 Tips for Attending Your First Yoga Class 

Before you even go to your first class, there's something you need to know. There are a ton of misconceptions in the West about what yoga is.  It isn't just physical postures. Yoga is spiritual life science, a philosophy on life and living...one that's packed with amazing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits. 

Contrary to what it might seem like on social media, not all people who practice yoga are models with perfect bodies doing poses that look impossible. Anyone can practice yoga. You don’t need to have a specific body type or weight, be a certain age, or be crazy flexible. Yoga is for everyone, and you’re invited to come just as you are.

1. Know What You Need

The beautiful thing about yoga is that it doesn’t require much. All you really need is a yoga mat and an open mind. If you don’t have a yoga mat, check with your local studio to see if they have one you can borrow. Most studios carry extra mats for students that don’t have their own.

Be sure to wear something comfortable that you can move in. Leggings, stretch pants, yoga pants or sweatpants are perfect. A comfortable t-shirt or tank top will work great for a top. Just make sure that whatever you do decide to wear is comfortable and allows you to move. Bare feet are beneficial, as socks won’t offer the grip you need on your yoga mat.

2. Go to a Class for Beginners

If you’re going to your first yoga class, finding a class geared towards beginners is important. The last thing you want to do is end up at a class that’s going to validate your trepidation. A beginner’s yoga class is designed with you in mind. Everyone has to start somewhere, and your yoga instructor knows this.

In a beginner’s yoga class, you can expect poses to be simple, slow and explained in detail. You’ll start with the basics, and learn the names of the various poses as you go. You honestly don’t need to know a thing about any of the poses for a beginner’s class. You’ll be gently guided and strongly encouraged.

3. Arrive A Little Early

Show up to your class about 10-15 minutes early. This will give you a chance to check out the studio, get acquainted with your instructor, check in, fill out any necessary paperwork and find a good spot to put your yoga mat. Your instructor will likely make you feel welcomed right away, introducing themselves and showing you around the studio.

If you find your way to your yoga mat and there are still a few minutes before class begins, allow yourself to just sit there and take everything in. You might want to stretch a little, offer a smile or introduction to others who join the class and just notice everything going on around you. Feel proud of yourself for showing up!

4. Let Go Of Expectations

If you’ve never been to yoga before, you really have no idea what to expect. So let go of any expectations you have of what you think it's going to be like. You’ll find that a beginner’s yoga class is really mellow, probably filled with people that are facing the same apprehension you are. Everyone in your class is there for the same thing, though. To learn about yoga.

You’re not expected to know anything. No one is going to judge your ability. Don’t expect everyone in the class to be more flexible than you, younger than you, fitter than you or thinner than you. You have no idea who will be in your class or what brought them to yoga. You never know, the person on the mat next to you could become a new friend. Yoga’s amazing for increasing connection...both to yourself and others. 

5. Go With an Open Mind

This is your first yoga class. Be open to whatever comes your way. There will likely be some breathing exercises or some type of meditation. You’ll probably hear some words and terms you’ve never heard before. There could be some kind of chanting, but there might not be. 

Accept it all with an open mind. You’re doing something new. As strange as it may feel at first, remember that everyone who practices yoga has been where you’re at. 

If a little meditation is involved and you’ve never meditated before, stay open. Even if your mind feels like it’s in a million different places at once. Meditation doesn't mean having no thoughts. It’s like an intimate meeting with your mind. So yes, you’re doing it right.

Be open to what your body can or can’t do. Don’t push your limit. When you come to your first yoga class with an open mind, you’re really surrendering yourself to the unknown. This is one of the most beautiful things yoga is here to teach us.

Other Things to Keep in Mind for Your Best First Yoga Class

A couple other things to keep in mind before heading to your first class: 

• Don’t go to class with a full stomach. Avoid eating anything for 1-2 hours before your practice. 
• Bring a water bottle with you so you can ensure to stay hydrated throughout the class. 
• When you arrive at the studio, silence your phone. Most yoga studios are dedicated quiet spaces.

Last Thoughts

By following these tips for attending your first yoga class, you'll significantly relieve any apprehension you might be feeling. We all have to start somewhere, and there’s no better time than now.

A yoga class can offer a beautiful experience of connecting deeper with yourself, your body, and other participants. Allow yourself to be open to the entire experience, and you'll find it offers some amazing rewards.