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Beginning Hatha: How to Get Started
Hatha Yoga is excellent for students of all levels of experience. The best way to learn about Hatha Yoga is to experience it! Whether you have already tried a few Hatha Yoga classes or you are just starting to consider attending one, the following suggestions should help you get off to a great start.
1. Pick a class or a beginner’s series - Have an experience
We offer many beginner-friendly Hatha Yoga classes. Everyday new students start with these classes! Look for any starred class on our class schedule which indicates classes that cover basic principles and techniques to create a strong foundation in Hatha Yoga. These classes are offered every day of the week at times to fit any schedule, and allow students to start anytime. Star classes include a mix of students and provide a great introduction to Hatha Yoga. In these classes, you will receive instruction in how to do the yoga, you will learn basic foundations of the practice, and, best of all, you will experience Hatha Yoga. If you are attending your first class ever or if you have pre-existing injuries, please talk to you teacher before class. It is suggested that new students attend at least 8 Star classes before trying an other class.
Beginner’s Series classes are 4-week courses (2 classes per week) that students pre-register for. The workshop series classes cover basics of Hatha Yoga and progress each week with the same group of students. This is a great way to get a foundation in Hatha Yoga. Some students like to attend a Beginner’s Series before attending the on-going classes (mentioned above) while other new students enjoy attending on-going classes and then decide to register for a Beginner’s Series at a later date.
2. Preparing for Class – What to bring, What to wear
All Hatha Yoga classes require the use of a yoga mat. Students are encouraged to bring their own mat but mats are available to rent from Yoga Yoga for $1 per class (no mat rental charge for your first class. Our yoga rooms are equipped with straps, blocks, and blankets that you are welcome to use if you desire.
Wear clothing that is comfortable and that you can move and breathe in easily. Fitted shirts are recommended so that you can bend and move without the shirt coming up. Many students wear leggings, fitted yoga pants, or exercise attire. Yoga is done without shoes; you can leave your shoes (and socks) in the shoe cubbies at our front door. Please be aware that some people are allergic to strong fragrances (powerful body perfumes are best left at home.) Yoga is best done on an empty stomach. If you find it necessary to eat before class, choose a light, easily digestible snack. This will make the yoga more comfortable and effective.
3. Keep Up - Practice Makes Perfect
Ultimately, a yoga practice is best done daily. (Even a few minutes every day can make a big difference!) This gets you centered for your day and provides maximum progression. But any practice, however often, will be beneficial. Two to three times a week will provide noticeable results. Many people find that they feel so good when they do yoga, they want to do more and more!
Some students find that having a "yoga buddy" helps them maintain their commitment to practice. Invite a friend to attend classes with you or meet a friend in classes that likes to keep a similar schedule. Talk to your teacher about starting a home practice. Try some Hatha workshops or special events.
4. Ask Questions and Share Your Experience
Our teachers are always available before or after class to answer questions and talk with you. Let your teacher get to know you! If there are particular things that you want to work on in your practice, your teacher can make suggestions. If you have questions about experiences during class or in your home practice, feel free to talk to your teacher. (Always let your teacher know if you have an injury or health concern that may require modification of yogic postures!)
If you prefer to communicate anonymously, each center has "Comment Cards" that can be filled out. We appreciate any feedback, suggestions, or comments that you want to share.
For more information on Hatha Yoga, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.
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