"I'm not flexible enough for yoga" is the yoga equivalent of "I'm too dirty to take a shower". Flexibility is something yoga gives you, not something you need to bring.
If you've been putting off your first class, this one's for you.
What to wear and bring
- Comfortable clothes you can move in. Leggings or track pants and a T-shirt that doesn't ride up when you bend forward.
- Bare feet. Socks slip on a mat.
- A mat, if you have one. A rug or carpet works for your first online class.
- Two cushions or thick books to use as props. Props aren't cheating; they're how we bring the floor closer to you.
- Water, and an empty-ish stomach. Eat lightly at least an hour or two before.
What actually happens
Every teacher is different, but a first class with me looks roughly like this:
- A quick chat. I'll ask about injuries, how your body feels, and what you'd like from yoga. Be honest; it shapes everything.
- Breathing and settling. A few minutes to arrive, slow down and notice how you feel.
- Warm-up. Gentle movements for the spine, shoulders and hips.
- The main practice. A handful of foundational poses, taught slowly with options for every body.
- Relaxation. A few minutes lying down at the end. Many people say this is their favourite part, and it's not because they're lazy.
You don't need to look like the photos on Instagram. You need to breathe, move and pay attention. That's the whole job.
Three things beginners worry about (and shouldn't)
"Everyone will be better than me." In a good class, nobody is watching you. They're busy with their own wobbles.
"I won't know the names of the poses." You don't need to. I'll show you and talk you through it.
"What if something hurts?" Then you stop and tell me. Sensation is fine; sharp pain isn't. We'll find a version that works.
After your first class
You might feel energised, a bit sleepy, or pleasantly sore the next day. All normal. The magic happens with repetition, so try to come back within the week while it's fresh.
Ready to roll out the mat? Book a trial in my online classes, or a personal session at home in Gurgaon if you'd like one-to-one attention from day one.
