Good Yoga Guidelines
Each yoga class is carefully designed so that you may derive the maximum benefit from your experience. While you are in class, feel free to ask questions on anything that is not clear to you. I supply yoga mats, blankets, bolster pillows, chairs and yoga ties, but you are welcome to bring your own, if you would like. For hydration and cleansing purposes, you may want to bring water in a non-leaking container to class. Here are some guidelines and suggestions that you will find useful in your practice of Yoga.Class Attendance: Commitment to regular class attendance is highly recommended. If you know in advance that you must miss a class, please notify me (ideally at least 24 hours in advance) so I can accommodate another student. You may always make up a missed class by attending another class during the week, if space allows. You may make up only one missed class per series by applying it to another series of classes.
Cancellation: Due to small class sizes, your payment is due in full one week before the start date of the series. Should you cancel your participation after the start date of the series, you can choose to apply your payment to a future series, or be refunded 50% of your payment.
It is best to practice yoga on an empty stomach. Therefore, wait at least two hours after a full meal before practicing. You may, however, take a glass of juice or a piece of fruit up to an hour beforehand. After class, be sure to rehydrate by drinking plenty of water or herbal tea.
What clothes to wear: Wear loose, light and comfortable clothing. A sweatshirt and a pair of socks are helpful for a more satisfying end of class relaxation. Before starting your practices, remove your wristwatch, belt and any jewelry that may interfere with your movements.
Health Considerations: Please let me know if you are under a doctor’s care or if you have any specific health condition such as high or low blood pressure, back problems, sinus trouble, recent major surgery, pregnancy, etc. I might be able to give you specific guidance.
Regular Practice of Yoga: To receive the most benefit from yoga class, practice daily what you are learning in class. If you are especially pressed for time, just get down on the floor, move, stretch, and breathe for at least 10 minutes a day! Consider keeping a yoga journal to mark your progress.
When you enter the classroom, you are entering an environment of peace and relaxation. Allow yourself to enter into the experience of being in the "here and now." After the relaxation at the end of class, you may want to continue to experience the feeling of relaxation and well being by quietly gathering yourself and departing. That's fine! You are also free to share your experience with me or other students, or to just enjoy the social community of your class. While you are in class, feel free to ask questions on anything that is not clear to you.
The benefits of yoga available to you are many, regardless of your age, flexibility and degree of accomplishment of the exercises. Remember to be gentle with yourself and refrain from comparing yourself to the teacher or other students! Yoga is a process that invites your full awareness and self accepting compassion. I am happy to offer assistance in whatever way possible.