YOGA FOR YOUWhat to Expect
It is best to show up to a new studio 10 to 15 minutes before
your class. That way you can sign any release forms that
are required and the receptionist or teacher can show you
around the studio. Remove your shoes before entering any
yoga room. Some studios require you to remove your shoes
at the front door, and some have you leave your shoes just
outside the yoga room. Look around to see what others are
doing or ask if you’re not sure of the studio’s policy.
What to Do
Once in the studio, relax and don’t worry about the others
around you. Everyone was a beginner once, so any nervous-
ness you might feel is normal and no one is judging you.
Set up your mat in a place that you feel comfortable. I
would suggest the center of the room in the middle row, that
way you can see the teacher easily, but also the students in
front of and behind you. This will help you learn visually.
Next, sit quietly on your mat and wait for class to start.
You can sit in Easy pose or lie on your back, whatever feels
most comfortable. This is not the time to show off the fact
that you can touch your toes or balance in Tree pose. You
may see other students doing what looks like a warm-up
but almost all teachers are frustrated by this activity. Teach-
ers have a class plan mapped out before they come into
the room. If someone’s stretching out a part of their body
that needs to be strong and tight for the teacher’s plan, that
student is counteracting what the teacher has planned for
the class. If a warm-up is necessary, your teacher will pro-
vide it within the context of the class; you do not need to do
anything extra.