New to Yoga?
We all have to start somewhere, right? Are you curious about Yoga and want a better idea of what it actually is before attending a class? Well Yoga is not about being able to touch your toes. You don’t have to be flexible or strong to do Yoga. Yes, these are things we work towards but Yoga is so much more than building strength and flexibility. It is a lifestyle choice - a lifestyle where we consciously work towards optimum health and wellbeing. Yoga helps us to maintain inner strength and balance through life’s transitions.
Many Yogis find that, with a regular practice, subtle lifestyle shifts occur and do so naturally. From my own experience and from feedback from students these shifts include a sense of self-esteem and worth, a more respectful attitude towards yourself and others, including the environment and animals, better food and diet choices, moving towards organic foods, skin care and cleaning products etc.
Yoga is for everyone. And there are styles that will suit some more than others. If our classes don’t suit you then I encourage you to search for the style of Yoga that does, as it can have such a powerful impact on your life and I’d hate you to miss out on that!
A typical class at Metta Yoga will involve some time to ground down and physically and mentally arrive, awareness of breath, asana/physical Yoga, meditation and relaxation.
Here’s a few things you need to know before coming to class:
Be prompt!
Don’t get your panties in a twist on your way to class! Always leave ample time to get to the studio and aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early so that you have time to settle in before class starts. Your body and mind will thank you for it! Classes start on time, and doors may be locked once the class has started.
Let go of expectations!
Don’t come to class with any expectations of yourself or the teacher. Allow yourself to be open to the experience that you’ll have on your mat. Some days that experience will be better than others, and often that’s simply a reflection of how your mind and body are feeling on that given day.
It’s important that you practise as though you are the only one in the room. Let go of the competitiveness and desire to compare yourself to others. We all come from different backgrounds, have different genes, different strengths and different weaknesses, and are potentially working with different injuries and illnesses. Some students may be new and others have been practising for decades. This is a time to listen to your own body, and simply enjoy the ride.
What do you need to wear?
Wear suitable clothing. There is a wide range of movement involved in a yoga class so the last thing you want is a shirt that rides up, pants that fall half way down your bum or see through leggings! It’s important that your clothes are relatively tight fitting as baggy clothes can get in the way as you move, and also when your teacher is assisting you with your alignment.
Whilst there’s no need to go crazy and spend big bucks on branded clothing it’s important that you feel comfortable so you can think less about what you might be flashing and more about how you might be feeling. So my recommendation is close-fitting tank tops, leggings or shorts with built in briefs. Also bring extra layers with you as you will heat up as you move, and cool down in relaxation.
Socks will need to be removed - you cannot wear them during the active part of the classes as you will slip.
What do you need to bring?
Whilst we provide you with all props, it is highly recommended that you bring your own Yoga mat. Our mats are cleaned after every class but for hygiene reasons it’s nice to have your own. Also your mat ends up becoming an extension of your body, and part of your own personal Yoga journey - like a magic carpet. It’s important to buy a quality, non-slip mat that isn’t too thick and spongy. We have a range of mats for sale.
Also, bring with you a reusable bottle of water (as Yogis strive to be environmentally conscious!) and a hand towel if you are prone to sweating. You may also like to bring your own eye pillow for relaxation.
Class etiquette:
Please arrive with a clean body and feet, wearing no strong deodorants or perfumes.
Shoes need to be removed at the door. A studio is considered a clean, sacred space.
Mobile phones must be switched to silent and off vibrate.
No gum or food are permitted in the yoga room.
Whilst we practise Yoga as a group, most people come to be with themselves. Social conversations are discouraged during class as it robs students of their sacred time and space.
On that note, we aim for little distractions during class. So have a bathroom stop before class starts, enter and exit the space quietly, and always be respectful of others who are trying to relax.
Treat others exactly the way you want to be treated. Our studio is a space of love, kindness and peaceful intentions. Please leave any negativity and grumpiness with your shoes at the door.
Most importantly, have a positive attitude, an open mind, and have fun!
