Tips to make the best out of your first yoga class

What to bring

Mat

If you're headed to your very first class, don't worry about bringing a mat if you don't have one. We offer mat rentals. As you keep going to class you're going to want to invest in your own mat. While you may be tempted to buy a low-cost mat from your local retailer, if you're truly committed to your yoga practice, it's worthwhile to invest in a high-quality mat.A supportive, well-made mat that offers good traction and long-term durability makes all the difference.

Water Bottle

It is important to stay hydrated so make sure you bring water with you. Our studio has filtered water and you may fill up your wattle bottle anytime.

Towel

If you tend to sweat a lot, or you're trying out hot yoga, bring a hand towel with you to class.

Props

Our studio provide blocks, blankets, and straps. Your teacher will tell you which props are needed for each class, but if she doesn't, grab a block and a strap anyway, just in case you need an assist to get into a pose.

What to wear

Wear comfortable clothing.

A shirt that's a little bit fitted works best for yoga. Big baggy t-shirts, or even loose-fitting workout shirts, aren't great since they'll slide down every time you bend over...and you're going to be doing a lot of bending over.Any comfortable exercise pants or shorts will do, just make sure you avoid pants that don't stretch, like jeans.

Shoes are not needed

Yoga is most often done barefoot. You will occasionally see people with some kind of sock or shoe, but that's often due to an injury or medical condition. If you feel completely uncomfortable taking off your shoes in front of strangers, compromise by wearing yoga socks. These special socks have non-slip grips on the bottom that "grab" the mat and prevent your feet from slipping around.

How to Prepare

The beauty of yoga is that it requires very little other than your own body. Preparation is simple, but if you're new, it's always a good idea to get to class a little early to help acclimate yourself to the environment and introduce yourself to the instructor.All the different poses can feel overwhelming the first time you do yoga. If you're completely new to yoga, it’s important to let your instructor know before class starts if you have any injuries or limitations. This gives the instructor the opportunity to better support you during your practice, provide personalized feedback and make your first class as comfortable and accessible as possible. Here are a few other tips to keep in mind:

Avoid Heavy Meals Prior to Class

Don't eat a heavy meal right before you do yoga. When you start moving, everything gets churned up and you may start to feel sick if your stomach is too full. We recommend to not eat one to two hours before class unless is a light snack.

Get Warmed Up If You're Early

If you happen to be early to class, this is the perfect time to choose a place in the room. Being in the middle and towards the back is a great way to observe how others are moving as a guide along with the teacher who will support you during class. Also, be sure to use the bathroom beforehand to avoid the disruption of having to step out during class.

Stay Positive

Don't feel bad if the teacher corrects your postures. Hands-on instruction can be incredibly helpful for learning good form. Try not to judge yourself harshly in comparison to what others are doing on their mats. Yoga is a personal practice, and everyone's abilities and goals are different. Stay light-hearted and keep your sense of humor. Laugh if you fall out of a pose, smile when things get difficult. It's also ok to say no to an adjustment if the teacher's hands-on approach isn't what you want. Enjoy yourself.

Ask Questions

Perhaps the most important tip is to always ask questions when you don't understand something. Questions about specific physical postures are best directed toward your teacher, either during or after class.

Class Etiquette

Arrive on Time

Arrive at least 10 minutes before the class is scheduled to start so you have time to check in, put down your mat, and go to the bathroom if necessary. If you do arrive late, don't worry, we are not here to judge you. We understand traffic and parking can sometimes get the best of us. Just walk in and try to not disturb.

Silence Your Cell Phone

Make a habit of doing this as soon as you get to class. You'll be embarrassed if your phone rings during class, and it's a major distraction for the instructor and other students. If you forget and your cell phone rings, own up to it and turn the ringer off immediately. Never answer the phone or send texts during class. If it is an emergency please step outside to answer.

No shoes in the yoga room.

There are cubbies provided where you can leave your personal belongings.

Look and Listen

When you're first learning the poses, it's okay to glance around the room to see what everyone else is doing, but look to the teacher for your primary instruction. Also, listen for verbal cues as she describes how to do each pose.

No perfumes, oils, or cologne.

Many people are sensitive to smell and in heated classes the scent amplifies.

No talking during class.

We want you to be able to express yourself to the fullest but conversation should cease until afterwards.

Respect Savasana

Your final relaxation in savasana is an important part of your practice. Don't leave class early. If you must, tell the teacher prior to the class start and try to exit the room quietly.

Final Tips:

Come to the practice with an open heart and an open mind.

Invite compassion to be your guide as you practice with different types of bodies. Never be afraid to help others even if grabbing an extra block for your neighbor or making room for someone who arrived late.

There's no better way to learn yoga than by doing

The first few practices can feel like a lot. You're learning new physical postures, you're hearing new terminology, and you're immersed in a new environment. The most important thing to remember is to keep breathing and stay focused on yourself rather than those around you. Everything will become easier with time. Be patient and kind with yourself.

Confused about which class to attend?

Feel free to call us at (808)757-3550 or reach out to us via email at info@afterglowyoga.com and and we will be happy support you by explaining all the different classes we offer and recommend the best ones that will suit your needs and where you are on your yoga journey.Looking forward to seeing you on the mat.Welcome to our Ohana!“ Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.” ― The Bhagavad Gita.