YOGA FOR YOUfocused on moving, or are you looking to challenge yourself
physically? Ask as many questions as you can think of. Studios
love new students, and they want you to be happy, so don’t be
afraid to seek information. Talk to the teachers as well.
Teachers and Learning Styles
Teachers are meant to be your guide, and you want to
choose one who makes you feel good about showing up on
your mat every time. Find an instructor who teaches in a
manner that you understand.
Also think about how you learn best and match your
style to a teacher’s method of instruction. Which of the fol-
lowing types of learner best applies to you?
VISUAL LEARNER: Are you a visual learner? Do you need to
see someone demonstrate everything in order to grasp
the concept? Look for a teacher who demonstrates often
or situate yourself in the middle row in class so that
you can watch those in front of you and behind you for
visual cues as to what to do with your body.
AUDITORY LEARNER: Do you learn best by listening? Seek
out a teacher who excels at giving verbal instructions.
You want someone who doesn’t just name the pose and
expect you to get into it, but will describe each part of the
alignment of the pose. Also look for someone who gives
the subtle instructions of the breath and guides you to
relax and find strength.
KINESTHETIC LEARNER: Do you learn by doing or having
someone help you? Look for a teacher who is apt to give
hands-on adjustments to her students. Adjustments help
guide a student into the pose in the correct manner.