Despite what critics might say, yoga ISN’T any of the following; only for double-jointed people, a religion/cult, pointless exercises and only practised with the help of a guru; which are just a handful of the many myths surrounding this ancient theory and practice which should have been debunked a long time ago. In reality yoga is a hugely beneficial series of mindful exercises, stretches and relaxation techniques (which are all related to breathing) which when practiced regularly can reap significant rewards in terms of manifesting a unique sense of calm and subsequent clarity of thought in individuals.

Yoga Classes v Instructional DVDs

Of course, if you’re new to yoga the first thing you’ll need to do is find a suitable teacher and class. It’s always advisable to introduce yourself to yoga with the help of a qualified and experience teacher, who can guide you through the various exercises ensuring that you don’t injure yourself in the process. Despite there being a myriad of dedicated yoga instructional DVDs out there, a beginner should avoid these and instead sign up to a beginner’s class in their locality.

Where Do I Practice Yoga?

Just browsing the internet, reading the local newspapers or even looking at adverts in shop windows can point you in the direction of a group or class nearby, wherever you are geographically situated, as the popularity of yoga has gone from strength to strength in recent times. Arguably the most important factor for yoga newbies is to find a class and a teacher who they feel they can learn from and potentially relate to, in terms of learning the many practices and protocols keenly associated with the art of yoga.

Don’t be Afraid to Ask

Naturally, beginning anything new can often feel overwhelming, however this will soon be countered and quickly diminished courtesy of the enormous sense of wellbeing you detract from practicing yoga, once you’re up and running so to speak. That’s why choosing the class which best fits into your own lifestyle and commitment should be your priority from the outset. The question is, just what constitutes the right yoga class from your personal perspective? The all-important where, who, when, which, why and how.

Essentially you need to get a feel for a yoga class when you visit one to see what’s on offer and talk to the teacher. Look around you and observe the interactions between the teacher and those attending the class if you get to sit in. First impressions count for a lot.

• Do you think the classroom ambience conveys a sense of calm? The actual building which houses the yoga class (in a physical way) is vital. Yoga classes tend to be accommodated in a variety of different structures, all of which can set the tone. It might even be a steel building, like the ones pre-engineered steel building systems manufacturer, Armstrong Steel readily construct for a number of leisure and recreational sectors
• What’s my gut feeling about the teacher? Have they received training from an accredited school or a well-respected master yoga teacher themselves? Do they inspire me to learn more? Have they got a good reputation locally?
• Will my fitness level demands be satisfied by the volume or intensity of exercises covered in class?
• Are the classes too big? In as much as do I have worries about not getting enough one-on-one attention from the teacher?
• Would I look forward to attending this class on a regular basis?
• Can I afford the class?
• How do I feel after watching/participating in a class?