by Jeannie Diaz
Tips for beginners on how to prepare yourself for your first in-person yoga class
When I started yoga there
were not a variety of yoga classes and diverse teachers. Yoga is a mind-body
experience --- find a studio that will be suitable for you and I am sure when
you do you will feel the most benefits.
1)
Support your local studio and research
You don’t need to travel too far and
sometimes in doing so may result in rushing to take a class which may defeat
the relaxing mode you are trying to capture. There are many studios that offer
a 2-week unlimited new member sale---which is such a great deal. Try all
different types of classes. In time, and if you can afford to, some of the
pricier studios offer an array of props for instance eye pillows and hands-on
aromatherapy. A smaller class where the teacher is more attentive to you and
has time to have a full conversation with you prior to the class really makes
a difference.
2)
How to pick a class that will suits you
There are about 8 styles of yoga. The most
popular are Vinyasa, Restorative or Yin, Hatha, Astanga or Bikram. For
beginners, I recommend a class that will focus on basic postures explained
in depth, a yoga flow where pranayama (breath control) and basic meditation
techniques are explained. Simplicity is key. As described by my favorite yoga
studio “sometimes moving slowly and with intention can be our greatest
challenge and our greatest reward”.
3)
Shopping Time
Clothes- Before shopping for
a whole new expensive wardrobe, take a class first. Wear the supportive
clothing that you already have. Something breathable that you feel
comfortable in. Depending on the class, there is no right/wrong clothing. Since
all of our bodies are shaped beautifully, I always recommend to shop in person
so that you can feel the quality. Look for breathable, moisture-wicking,
stretch (which allows freedom of movement) fabrics of your choice that are kind
to the skin.
Yoga mat- the main
key. Why
do I shop in person, feeling the quality of the mat has helped the most. Some
mats are thicker (which is key for the support of all your joints). Some have a
different coating although most are made with PVC. Others may smell at first
when unrolled (which may sound odd, but they have a chemical smell) and if you
perspire a lot look for one with the right grip which is also important. The 4
keys are thickness, material, length, and type. Portability and color play
factors too but not as critical as the above. Colors that tend to be fun may be
inviting for you to use more. Don’t shop super cheap as you will then end up
shopping for multiple mats but don’t go all in for a $150 mat as well. When
shopping online look for reviews prior.
4) Be patient with your practice and gentle to yourself and your thoughts. Your first yoga
class may be a euphoric and zen- like experience or the latter. Listen to how
your body is feeling on that particular day, try not to overdo poses
(pre-stretch a bit) there will be students who are more flexible but don’t let
that intimidate you- your practice is uniquely yours, and don’t give up on the
first try. Experience other teachers or studios. Through routine practice, you
will reap the benefits of learning how to calm your mind, relax your body,
and control your breathing. The fact that you are moving is amazing.
REFERENCES
●
Las Comadres YouTube Channel: Mind,
Body & Spirit: Breathe Meditation with Jeannie Diaz
● Website: Jeannie Diaz Yoga
This article is part of
the Fall 2023 issue of the Comadres Connect Newsletter.
Copyright @2023 Las
Comadres Para Las Americas
