A yoga practice is just that - a practice - so make a commitment to come to your class each week and when you have to miss a class check our schedule so you can make up that missed class. Through continued practice, you will soon experience some of the many physical benefits of yoga such as deeper body awareness, normalized blood pressure, relief of back problems, a steadier metabolism, and better balance, to name just a few. Yoga is not a competitive sport nor is it about a perfect pose.  It is a time for inward focus and of meeting your body where it is when you come to your mat to practice.  With proper alignment your body will begin to feel more open and free in each of the poses.

There shouldn’t be any pain, during or after your yoga practice.  Try to distinguish between pain and muscle stretch. If you do feel pain, stop and ask the teacher for assistance, either using props or just realigning yourself.  Teachers provide assistance for the purpose of better enhancing your feeling of the posture.  With each practice know that your body is opening more each week.  Try to stay connected to your breath and learn to be aware of how your body reacts to your breath.  In the first few classes, try not to push your body beyond its limits (remember, no competition here!)  If you know you could benefit from a block or a strap, don’t be afraid to use them – that’s what they are there for! If you have some physical limitations or injuries, go easy and breathe into those areas as they gently open.   The postures promote the free flow of energy throughout the spine and nervous system and assist in the elimination of toxins and poisons from the joints, glands and organs, flushing and stimulating them.  Even a small amount of practice can produce significant improvement in one’s general health.  If you experience discomfort that continues be sure to tell your teacher at the next class.  Also before each class let your teacher know of any new injuries or physical conditions that could impact your practice.  She can suggest optional poses or props for more ease in the poses.

Listening to your body is number one in a beginner class.  Number two is to have FUN!  And number three is to leave the class feeling better than when you arrived.  

ENJOY!