What to Expect at Your First Yoga Class

When you think about a yoga class, what do you imagine? A room full of people chanting in a foreign language. Or maybe you think of yogis sharing the best vegan recipes after class on their way to get organic salads. Perhaps you picture a yoga class to be only for people who are uber flexible and can stand on their heads for a long amount of time. Some of these perceptions may be true, but some you may think of are far from what you actually experience in a yoga class. 

Each studio you visit will have a different atmosphere and culture. Some studios have a boho vibe, feel like a fitness gym, have a clean and simple design, or somewhere in between. Whatever studio you find yourself at, the goal is for you to feel as comfortable as possible. Find a yoga studio where you have a sense that you can practice yoga in your own way whether you are a beginner or a well-seasoned practitioner.

Trying out a new yoga studio can be anxiety-inducing. The thought of going to an unfamiliar space can pose a barrier to even stepping into a yoga studio. I hope having a bit of insight into what you can expect may ease some of these fears.

Here are some things you can expect when you take a class at Harmonia Healing Studio:

• The doors are open 15 minutes before class. You are welcome to come early to set up your space. Settling into the room before class starts gives you time to take a breath and acclimate to the space.
• All mats and props you need are available for you to use however, if you prefer your own gear bring it to class! I know very well how you know exactly where the sticky parts are of your much-loved, favorite yoga mat.
• Music is playing during class. Music can help you feel focused on yoga and drowns out the outside noise. You may also notice that your breath starts to align with the rhythm of the music giving you deeper breaths.
• Questions are encouraged, even in the middle of holding a pose. I would rather you ask the question to make sure you are feeling safe and supported rather than guessing and possibly ending up with an injury. Also, the chances of someone else having the same question are very high, especially in the beginner yoga class.
• You will probably not be the only other “newbie”. It is very often that people walk through the doors and say it is their first yoga class ever, or it has been since they were in college that they last went to a yoga class. Yoga classes are for any stage you are at on your yoga journey.
• There is complimentary water, tea, and coffee available during class. If your water bottle gets left at home or in the car, you don’t have to worry about going through an entire 60-minute, sweat-inducing flow class without hydration. After class, you are welcome to the coffee and tea bar that has a variety of options.

Yoga may still seem a little intimidating, but hopefully knowing a little more about what to expect at Harmonia Healing Studio relieves some of the worries. Yoga classes are always open for new or returning students. If you have any questions not addressed here, you can send them through the contact form or email.

-- Lea