I understand coming to your first yoga class can be a daunting experience. Here's my guide to what to expect so you can prepare, and know what to expect.
You can expect a warm welcome in a comfortable and safe space.
Online classes are taught via Zoom, and when you book into a class you will be sent the Zoom link for your class. I am online 10 minutes before the class starts so that everyone can log in at least 5 minutes early and there is time to say hello and have a brief chat - even if we just talk about the weather! We are not all in Sheffield; people join the classes whilst on holiday in Greece and Lanzarote and students can be anywhere in the world as long as the time difference works. I always start and finish the classes on time.
Once the class starts, I mute everyone but you can unmute yourself to ask a question. I prefer your camera to be on so I can see you. I have a big screen and I limit numbers so I can see everyone fairly clearly – it’s not the same as being in the same room, but not bad! If you prefer not to have your camera on, just let me know beforehand and that is fine too.
I teach verbally with very clear and simple instructions. If I use a Sanskrit name for a posture, I will give its English translation too. I watch everyone on screen to ensure I am understood and reword instructions as needed. I never single anyone out by name!
You don’t need to watch the screen or anyone else in the class. Occasionally, I will ask everyone to pause to watch me demonstrate something. I encourage an attitude of curiosity and interest in what you feel in your body so that you can move with comfort and ease rather than trying to perform or achieve a shape you see someone else’s body in!
Movements are taught in stages and you stay at the stage that suits you for as long as you decide. You don’t have to have any special yoga props but I may suggest the use of a chair, cushions, perhaps a dressing gown strap or a long sock if it might be helpful.
What is the flow of the class?
The beginning:
You will start lying down for a short settling and grounding practice. You will be guided to check in with what you feel in the body and to notice the breath. This begins the process of slowing the heart rate down and relaxing the nervous system.
The middle:
Yoga postures are next and these include sensible yoga postures that support what you need to do in daily life. I plan every class to move the spine in all directions: forward bending, gentle backwards bending, side bending and turning. We also work through the joints for flexibility and repeat movements which get and keep you moving well – strengthening muscles and bones along the way. We do practices to keep the feet fit and healthy and to improve balance.
Always included are practices to help you notice any unnecessary effort or tension in the body and over time you will get better and better at noticing this. You’ll learn to read the signs from your body more easily and so support comfort both off and on the yoga mat. Gradually, almost without noticing, you will find yourself doing things you didn’t think you could do, expanding your range of movement and feeling more “at home” in your body.
You and your body will always be in control of your movements and breathing. I will give guidance, make suggestions and invite you to explore, but you are in charge!
The end:
The class ends with relaxing breath practices to support optimal breathing in daily life. In the Wednesday and Thursday classes, there is a Yoga Nidra deep relaxation too.
After the class:
There is time to ask any questions and have a brief chat before leaving. If you have also joined the online library, you will have a wide selection of full yoga classes and practices of different lengths to dip into before your next live class.
I hope this introduction answers your questions. If not please book in for a free 1:1 chat.
I look forward to perhaps seeing you in class. Book your space here.