11 questions you might have before your first Yoga clasS

Today most people have heard of yoga and believe it must be good for something. As a yoga teacher I often hear similar questions and doubts from people who want to start yoga. So here are some questions answered and a bit of advice if you are new to Yoga:

“I am not good at yoga”

You can’t be good or bad in Yoga. Yoga is a lifelong journey which you just have to start ans slowly see the progress. It never ends. 

Come as you are without expectations without judgement.

“I am not flexible”

I think this is the most common thing I hear. 

Yoga is not about touching your toes it is about what you learn on the way down.

You don’t have to be flexible to do yoga. Flexibility is neither a requisite nor an aim in Yoga.  but yes a regular yoga practice will certainly make your body more flexible.

It is true that certain postures require a lot of flexibility, but these can always be adjusted (with props or variations) to your body. So listen to your body, be careful, don’t force yourself into postures: use the easier options and use blocks and belts. 

It is not important how the posture looks like it is important how it feels.

"Why should I do yoga?"

Yoga is not only a good workout for your body but also helps to connect to your breath and mind. Yoga is about creating space in body and mind. Yoga is about feeling good.

“What is Yoga exactly?”

Yoga originated in India and has been practiced for over 2000 years. Most people associate Asana practice with yoga.  But Asana is only the physical practice of yoga postures. Yoga in it’s totality s much more complete: Pranayama (Breathing techniques), Meditation, Concentration, Philosophy, Lifestyle choices…) That’s what Yoga is more than Fitness, it is a lifestyle. 

“Are there different Yoga styles?”

Yes there are many different yoga styles and it might take some time to find the style and teacher which fits to you.

Generally you can distinct between two groups: more active physical styles (Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Power Yoga… ) and more restorative styles (Yin, Gentle Yoga, …)

“I am not calm enough to do yoga”

That’s exactly why you should practice yoga: it helps you to feel calmer. Some Yoga styles are very physical and challenging and will help you get moving, align your energies and actually feel much calmer afterwards. You don’t have to be calm to do Yoga, the practice will make you calmer.

“What is Savasana”

Savasana is the final relaxation pose where you are basically lying on you back with closed eyes. Savasana means Corpse pose. You should lay still like a dead body which (just like meditation) can be very challenging at the beginning. It helps the body and mind to record the benefits from the practice and helps you recuperate and feel reborn. 

“How often should I practice?”

There is absolutely no rule how often and how long you should practice. As with everything: Consistency and regularity is key to seeing progress. Once a week is good, twice a week is better, 3 times a week is fantastic. You can even practice every day. It really is up to you. I personally have a very short daily practice and try to do 2 or 3 long practices per week.

“What does OM mean?”

Om or Aum is a symbol and seed or mantra sound from the Sanskrit language. It represents the Union of all creation. It can feel very strange and intimidating to chant Om in Yoga classes, and you don’t have to join the chant, but give it a try and over time you will feel the vibration and energy emanating from this sacred sound.

“What should I wear? What should I bring to practice?”

You don’t need much to practice Yoga. Yoga is practiced barefoot in comfortable clothes like leggings or shorts and a T-shirt ( Preferable clothes that are not too large, so you don’t have your t-shirt falling over your head for example. ) If you don’t have your own Yoga mat yet, ask the studio if they offer or rent mats. You will generally also find props like blocks and belts in every studio. So you really don’t need much to go to your first class. Just come as you are.

“What makes Yoga different from other Workouts?“

Yoga can be a very physical practice and a good workout but the aim of Yoga is not physical. Although the practice of Asana (Yoga Postures) will make you stronger and more flexible, Yoga is much more: It helps to improve your breathing, creates mindfulness, and connection with all that exists. Yoga has a profound impact on a physical, mental, psychological and spiritual level.

These are just some of the most common questions I hear from Yoga newbies. I hope I could answer some of yours and if you have any other questions, just send me a message.