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Getting Started "If people just get to a yoga class, any kind of class, and let yoga work its magic, something will happen." - Rodney Yee
You can hardly flip through a magazine without seeing a feature on yoga. It’s become mainstream and its benefits widely accepted. Oprah, Sting, Madonna, Meg Ryan, and many others are devotees of the practice. Maybe even your Mom, best friend or co-worker has been enjoying classes lately. Yoga has worked for thousands of years and for millions of people. The word yoga is Sanskrit and means union. It’s a 5,000 year old holistic tradition that unites body, mind, and spirit – bringing them into harmony and balance. Hatha yoga focuses on physical strengthening and purification of the body through postures (asanas), breathing practices (pranayama), and meditation. Some of the many benefits of practicing yoga are: · stress reduction/management · lower back pain relief · improved flexibility · increased stamina and energy · toned and strengthened muscles · better posture · improved circulation · better digestion · potential weight loss In addition, research has shown that yoga helps manage or control a wide range of conditions including: menopause, arthritis, asthma, blood pressure, carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic fatigue, depression, diabetes, headaches, and heart disease.
Whatever your
situation, it’s never too late to give yoga a try. But before you venture
out to your first class, take a few minutes to read a few tips on getting
started.
What Type of Class Should I Take? First, you need to know that the general term for all physical yoga is Hatha yoga. Within Hatha yoga are dozens of styles of yoga. A little research, asking questions, and some experimentation will be helpful in finding the style that is appropriate for you. Styles of yoga include: Iyengar, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Kripalu, Bikram, Kundalini, Power, Anusara, Restorative, Therapeutic, etc. It’s easy to do a little research using the internet or call local studios and ask for information about classes they offer. Always Start with a Beginner’s Class Better yet, sign on for an introductory or basics workshop/course to learn the fundamentals. Do not assume that being in good physical condition or practicing with a yoga video, or book prepares you for a more advanced class. Newcomers are usually amazed at how different and demanding yoga and not learning or practicing properly can result in injury. Starting in a basic class will give you a strong foundation of the fundamental techniques and proper alignment. Where Do I Take Class? In addition to yoga studios, classes are now being offered in fitness and community centers, YMCA’s, universities, and spas. Check your local newspaper or yellow pages, and make some inquiries. Do they offer a basics or introductory workshop? Do they have beginners’ classes? What styles of yoga do they offer? How large are the classes? Take the time to check out the class location, pick up a schedule, and meet the staff. Is it clean? How’s the atmosphere? Do you feel welcome and comfortable? If it doesn’t feel right, try somewhere else. Ask About the Instructors Seek well trained and experienced teachers. In the past there were no guidelines for qualifications governing the training of yoga instructors. Now is there is a national organization, the Yoga Alliance. If an instructor has met their registration requirements, you know that they have at least 200 or 500 hours of training and education. National directories of instructors and studios with their resume and qualifications are available through Yoga Alliance (877-964-2255) Yoga Journal Magazine (800-600-9642), and Yoga International Magazine (800-253-6243).
Before You Go to Class "In the beginning you have to make room for yoga in your daily life, and give it the place it deserves - after some time yoga itself will pull you up by the hair and make you do it." - Vanda Scaravelli, Awakening The Spine You’ve got your new yoga togs and you’re ready for your first class, but before you go, here are a few reminders: ü Consult with your physician before starting classes if you are taking medication, under a doctor’s care or have severe physical limitations. For the later, you may want to consider private instruction with a qualified teacher with yoga therapy training. (Contact the International Association of Yoga Therapists, www.iayt.org, for more information). ü You will need a yoga sticky mat. (Most locations have loaners and mats for sale.) ü Wear clothing that is comfortable with plenty of room to stretch. ü It’s best not to eat or drink at least 2 hours before class. ü Prepare to be barefoot. ü Avoid wearing body lotion, perfume or cologne. ü Be prepared to sweat. Creating & maintaining body heat allows the muscles to work more effectively in postures & prevents injuries. ü If it’s your first visit, please arrive early enough to complete some paper work. ü Please arrive for class on time and do not leave until class is concluded. ü Please turn off cell phones and pagers.
ü
Ladies, no inversions (upside down postures) during your monthly cycle.
ü Be honest with yourself and the instructor about any physical limitations. ü After class, drink plenty of water. ü Don’t be afraid to ask questions before, during or after class. ü Honor your physical limits. Do only what’s appropriate for you and how you feel. Remember, we all had to start somewhere. Make a Commitment Give it time to make a difference. If you can, commit to at least two classes per week for four to six weeks. Through consistent and patient practice you will begin to experience and enjoy the wonderful benefits of yoga. Remember, it’s a process and the process will reward your dedication with increased strength, balance, flexibility, and a greater sense of well being.
Congratulations on taking the first step. Welcome to yoga class!
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