What Matters

Tips on coming to your first yoga class

1. Wear clothes you can move in. A t-shirt and lounge pants are a good bet for most classes, but if you're trying a power class you'll probably want to wear a tank and shorts. Yoga is done barefoot.
2. Use a yoga mat- our studio provides them. After your hooked you will want to purchase your own! We give ATM yoga students a $10 discount on their first mat.
3. Eat only lightly before class. It's not wise to practice on a full stomach. If you're famished, a small stack an hour or two before class is should be enough to fill you up without weighing you down.
5. Stay hydrated. Like massages, some postures release stored toxins in the body, so it's a good idea to drink lots of water before and after class to help detoxify, and to replace H20. If you coming to a hot class- bring water, a towel and your own mat.
6. Arrive early. Honor yourself and the class by showing up about 15 minutes before the scheduled class time. That will give you ample time to check in, find a comfortable space, gather proper props like strap or block and start to center yourself.
7. Check in with the teacher, if necessary. Let your instructor know if you have injuries or limitations so he/she can be sure to show you modifications or clue you in to postures you'll want to avoid.
4. Listen to your intuition. Don't worry about what other people in the class are doing, and don't push yourself beyond what feels right for your body.
8. Rest if you need to. It's okay to take breaks throughout class. Just transition into a resting pose, like child's pose.
9. Don't give up after the first class. It's normal to feel uncomfortable for your first class or two, as you learn the postures and get used to the yoga style.
10. Try something new. Yoga styles and instructors can vary widely, so if you've tried a few sessions and you're still not feelin' it, try switching to another type of class or teacher.