Beginners

What if I’ve never done yoga before?
If you have never taken a yoga class or are uncertain of your physical abilities take it slow. There is no rush. Yoga isn’t a competition. It’s quite the opposite really. A regular yoga practice helps to loosen attachments and live life without an ego.

There are several styles we recommend to get you started.  

All these classes offer a slow introduction to yoga postures (asanas) and breathing (pranayama). Students are encouraged to modify poses and rest as needed. You won’t be judged. There are no awards for keeping up. Just be present. Relax.

Please read the class descriptions page and ask us for advice. Talk to the teacher before class if you have an injury or another concern. We are here to support you along your journey.

Which yoga style/practice is right for me?

The best practice for you is the one that you enjoy. Practicing a variety of styles will bring you a variety of benefits. Flow styles including Vinyasa, Power, Yogalates and Ashtanga focus on strength and flexibility. These are vigorous practices. Yin and Restorative are meditative and address the connective tissues. Every yoga class has it’s benefits. Try different styles taught by different teachers. Find the class or classes that suit you.

What should I wear?

We recommend wearing light, breathable, non-restrictive clothes. Our neighbor, Active Aggie is a great place to find the style and fit that suits your needs. They carry a variety of designers and styles.
Yoga is practiced barefoot.

What should I bring to class?
Bring a mat if you have one. Like every other activity – gear matters. Anyone who practices regularly will tell you that a good mat is INCREDIBLY IMPORTANT. Slipping around on a cheap mat sucks the fun out of yoga. You think about your hands and feet slipping more than the postures. At best you get little benefit from the practice. At worst you leave annoyed by the whole experience. I’ve seen countless smiles on students’ faces after they take their first class on a quality Jade or Manduka mat. It’s worth the investment. That said, we rent low quality mats for $1.

We provide face towels. If you sweat a lot bring a big one from home. We have a water cooler. Bring a water bottle and fill it up.

Should I sign up ahead of time?
Yes, that would be cool. You can sign-up online. New students are asked to arrive at least 10 minutes before class begins to fill out a waiver form. We recommend you register for class online. This makes the check in process quicker. Just tell us your name and say you signed up online when you come in. Boom, you’re done.

Class etiquette

  • Be happy
  • Leave your worldly concerns outside. They won’t serve you here.
  • Smile, you are making the world a better place.
  • Be on time, allow some extra time to get settled and take a few breaths.
  • Only leave early if you must and please inform your teacher ahead of time if you are not able to stay for the entire class.
  • If you are late, please enter as quietly as possible. Please don’t enter the class if they are in a meditation.
  • Remove your shoes before entering the studio.
  • Turn off your cell phone. It will be there after class.
  • Avoid wearing strong perfumes or lotions in the studio.
  • Use your inside voice.

How often should I take class?

It’s best to practice five or six times a week, seriously. That’s probably unreasonable, I know. Be grateful for what you can do. Try not to think of the past and don’t get bogged down with future plans to practice. Take it one day at a time. It’s a journey.

What are the benefits of yoga?
There are many. Physically, yoga builds strength, balance and flexibility. Ultimately the body becomes healthier, more supple and resilient. Mentally, yoga helps calm the mind. You will learn how to cope with negative thoughts. Yogi’s recognize destructive thoughts and know how to keep them at bay, or at least we try to. Spiritually, well, you’ll have to experience that for yourself.

What if I’m not flexible?
You are just like everyone else who comes here. With practice that will change. Really. It’s one of the many magnificent things about being human. If you do something one day, rest, and do it again the next day, you will be better at it. It’s a fact of life. So just practice and don’t be hard on yourself.

Can I practice yoga with a previous injury?
Always tell the teacher about your injuries. They will tell you when to back off or offer alternatives to a posture.

How should I prepare for class?

  • Drink some water before class.
  • Avoid eating a large meal up to three hours before class.
  • Get here a few minutes before class starts. Take some time to roll out your mat. Stretch. Breathe. Zen out a bit. Smile.
  • If it is your first time to the studio please arrive 10 minutes early to complete the waiver form.

How are schedule changes posted?
Any class changes (styles, times) will be posted on the online schedule.

 
Practice…