Before you start:
- Arrive 10 - 15 minutes early. Arrive early to set up your space, go to the bathroom, etc. We will start promptly. If you must come late, please wait until the opening prayer is completed and people have begun to move before entering.
- Be comfortable. Wear comfortable, stretchy clothing that allows you to move. Also bring layers, like sweat pants and a long sleeve shirt or a sweat shirt, and a pair of footies or socks. After practice we will cool down with savasana and prayer and we want you to remain comfortable.
- Yoga mat. Bring a yoga mat. Also called a fitness mat. We will provide the rest.
- Eat lightly. Avoid eating a heavy meal two hours before practice. Eat only a light snack.
- Take care of yourself and Know your limits. Yoga is a physical activity. Always stop if you feel discomfort or pain. If you have existing medical conditions, consult with your doctor before practicing yoga. Move in and out of postures slowly and with intention. Modify postures for your body. Never force yourself into a pose – either physically or mentally. Some bodies just won’t do certain things. You know your body better than anyone. So please listen to your body and respect what it has to say.
- Be open and let God be a part of our practice. Be open to new movements, new ideas, and new friends. Let’s get to know ourselves and how we can use these practices to help us along on our faith’s journey. As Brooke Boone, author of Holy Yoga notes, “By inviting God to be a part of our practice, we can open ourselves to Him completely: physically, emotionally, and spiritually.”
- Be gentle and patient with yourself. Let yourself be a beginner, even if have you experience. And even after you become comfortable with the postures, maintain an attitude of freshness, awe, and wonder toward this miracle that is your body.
- Be respectful. CRC has graciously given us permission to practice yoga within its church. Please be respectful of the space and others in class.
- Help put props away. At the end of each class, please put your props away. If someone else needs assistance, lend a helping hand.
- Leaving early. Leaving early is discouraged because savasana incorporates all that you did in class into your body, mind and heart. You will be missing the best part! But, we understand that sometimes you may have other commitments and just don't want to miss asana practice. So, if you must leave early, leave immediately after asana and before savasana begins.
- Have fun! Yoga is non-competitive. So come to enjoy yourself.
Thank you for reading these tips and putting them into practice!
See you soon.
See you soon.