The person on the mat next to you may be able to tuck their feet behind their head or may not able able to touch their toes. Don't worry what others are doing; your practice is your own and the challenge is to remember that each body is built differently. Leave ego at the door, turn the attention to yourself.
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your yoga practice.
The street door will be locked 5mins before the class start time
My studio is on the 2nd floor and I want you to be comfortable in the knowledge your belongs are secure. Placed shoes on the shoe rack and bags on the cupboard by the front door.
comfy clothes with bare feet
Clothes which allow for free movement are best; leggings, tracksuit bottoms, a vest or t-shirt.
We practice with bare feet to improve balance, and mobility of the joints of the feet, to reduce the risk of a slipping injury but also to experience a greater sense of connection with the earth. Socks are not recommended but if you have any health concerns with your feet, ensure you wear proper yoga socks with adequate grip. Leave your shoes in the shoe rack and belongings in the cupboard provided. They’ll be safe as the external door is locked 5mins before the start of each class.
bring your own mat
Investing in your own mat is a great way to bring yoga into your life outside of lessons.
Your mat is your own space so you become familiar with the way that it feels and it can feel quite comforting to roll the mat out at home. I do have some mats available to borrow, but please do let me know in plenty of time if you need one. (If you use one of my mats, please clean it after use.)
bring water to sip
Staying hydrated is really important when you are undertaking any kind of physical exercise and cool water can greatly aid your focus.
It's not a good idea to practice on a full stomach, but please make sure you aren't extremely hungry.
Arrive in plenty of time
You'll need a couple of minutes to set out your mat and remove any socks or jumpers.
Leave shoes, coats and bags outside the yoga space. The door of the studio will be locked 5 minutes before the start of the class to make sure your belongings are safe.
A quiet start to bring a sense of focus
It’s great to see familiar faces and friends, but with love, please keep chatter to a minimum. Some people come to yoga to enjoy an element of quiet from their daily lives.
Mobile devices should be switched off or onto silent mode. Feel free to wait for the beginning of the class seated cross-legged or laying on your back.
Respect & listen to your body
If you have had cause to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), painkillers such as ibuprofen or aspirin, please do not practice. These medications will prevent you from feeling pain - it’s their job - and this may cause you to stretch beyond your body's natural comfort. Nobody wants an injury!
Introduction and a focus for the practice
Inform me of any injuries or issues that may affect your practice. Only you know your body and what you can or cannot do. I do not know how your body feels.
Complete a health declaration before your first session with me and be sure to update it as necessary.
Early pregnancy, recent childbirth or miscarriage should be divulged as the class could involve some physical movements that may not be appropriate at this time. You have my assurance of my utmost discretion and respect.
it’s not all serious
Please know that I take my yoga very seriously and I honour and respect the role that I have. However, sometimes there is laughing or silliness - and this is entirely dependent on the energy of the group. Sometimes, there is snoring in savasana, sometimes yoga trumps, sometimes, rumbly tummies. (Read this blog post for why this is all good, if you’re interested to know)
Be respectful of others’ practice and of your own
Yoga is non-competitive. Please don't push your body any further than is comfortable.
Savasana
Each practice finishes with a short period of relaxation to allow your body to absorb your practice. You're very welcome to bring something warm to put on for this. Some people bring a pair of socks, a jumper or a blanket.
After savasana, we may take a short period of meditation and or chanting.