Welcome to our öm time yoga community! Below, please find a few pointers to help you feel more comfortable and prepared walking into a yoga class for the first time.
Each class and each instrutor is unique, however, there is a certain broad based yoga class protocol. Generally, you will come in, set up your mat, collect any props, if needed. Most teachers start with a beginning centering to prepare you mentally for the practice and to set the tone of the class. Your teacher will give the class general instructions about a pose, and they may also give you individual instructions to enhance your practice. They may even physically adjust your body while you are in the pose, to help you better understand the actions and movements of the pose. The class usually ends with a brief period of relaxation or meditation.
You may experience some soreness after your first class, rightly so, you are probably moving your body in ways that it is not used to.
 Yoga is best practiced on an empty stomach. It is recommended to allow 2 hours after a big meal and about 30 minutes after a snack before you practice.
Wear non-restrictive, comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.
Be kind and loving to yourself by accepting where you are. Rest sometimes. Do what you can, with what you have, and with where you are. Listen to your body, pushing yourself beyond comfort and pain is not part of any practice.
Abandon the competitive mind-set. Yoga is absolutely non-competitive. Yoga is a mindful practice which makes the body stronger, more flexible, and generally healthier. The aim is to calm the mind, open the heart, and accelerate our evolution as a whole. Have fun and celebrate where you are in the present moment!
If something hurts, or you don't "get it" ask your instructor for better clarification.
Drink plenty of water after practice.
Enjoy yourself!
Please arrive early for class, at least 5-10 minutes to give yourself time to register, settle in, connect with the teacher if necessary and use the restroom. This also gives you time to introduce yourself to the instructor and inform him/her if you have any injuries, where you are in your practice
If you are late, please wait until the opening meditation has completed and then please join class quietly. Please do not enter or leave a studio when the class is centering, in savasana or in meditation. Let your teacher know if you have to leave class early.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CELLPHONE! (This includes the vibration feature) Or better yet, leave it in your car or at home!
Before entering the studio, please remove your shoes and place them in the appropriate location. This helps keep the studio extra clean and is also a symbolic gesture of your intention to be fully present and mindful during your practice.
Please, no perfume, oils, or fragrant lotions.
We do have mats to borrow, however, we recommend you have your own for hygienic purposes.
If a student arrives late, be gracious and make room.
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