When you are first considering whether or not yoga is the right thing for you, it’s difficult because you don’t know what you don’t know, right?
Well here’s a brief, very simplified idea of what you can expect.
On Arrival:
When you first arrive, your teacher will welcome you and show you around the studio. Then show you the equipment (mats, blocks, bolsters (big pillows), straps, and blankets) that you are welcome to use free of charge. You are then welcome to choose your space in the studio where you feel comfortable.
The class:
When the doors close and the teacher begins the class, all will be quiet. The teacher will guide you through some breathing, and an opportunity to bring your focus solely to the class and yourself. Leaving life’s distractions outside.
You will then be guided through some sequences designed to warm up your body. Allowing your muscles to stretch, while also using your breath alongside your movement. (You may be surprised how much your breath can affect your movement, and your mind).
Following your warm up the teacher will guide you through more sequences. These will likely have elements of stretch, strength, balance and breathing techniques. Some you will be standing, and some you may be lying on your mat. Be aware that while some poses in a Foundations class can appear basic, and even seem easy, you may be using muscles you did not know you had! In your first class please don’t push yourself, you should focus more on technique than on effort exerted. During this part of the class, you may notice some cracks, clicks or releases within your body.
As the end of the class nears, the teacher will guide you to slow your body, and your breath. Often then moving into what’s called Savasana, this for many is a favorite part, this is where you have a chance to fully relax into a form of meditation. Many have been known to fall asleep!
Depending on your teacher, following your relaxation you may sit up and join a short chant, or more breathing exercises. These can alter and be chosen by the teacher for different reasons, one being the vibrational effect making some sounds can have on your body and mind.
The Feeling after:
Depending on the purpose of the class, you may either walk out feeling very energised, or very very relaxed! Either way you will feel a reduction in stress, improvement in mood, and a better mind / body connection.
Again, a very brief and simplified idea of what to expect.