1) Listen to your own intention. You probably signed up for yoga class with great intention to study and DO yoga. Come to every class possible. Be aware that the mind will look for reasons to skip class. Practice giving yourself an abundance of commute time. Arrive a bit early.
2) Come prepared. We do a lot of movement – churning, inverting, and twisting of the torso and organs – so please have an empty stomach. This does not mean come to class weak with hunger, but no big meals 2-3 hours beforehand. Wear non-binding clothing that keeps you plenty warm (nothing tight around the waist or braline – we won't be jogging!), and bring any of your own yoga gear that you need. All yoga gear is provided, but some people like to bring their own mat.
3) Ask for what you need. If you need more information, or if you want a little help outside of class, LET US KNOW! Yoga class CAN be a great time to practice silence (this helps to quiet the mind) – BUT, sometimes you just gotta ask that burning question. Let us know if conditions are unbearable for you (heat, music, A/C, etc).
4) Listen to your body. This can take a lot of practice, since we are used to just listening to our thoughts. Imagine what would happen if our mind did not control the body, and the body got to decide what was best. How would the body decide to treat itself to stay healthy and vital (e.g. how would our meals change)? During yoga class, we MUST listen to what our bodies are telling us, otherwise our mind may push us into pain (OR not push at all). Getting to know your own limitations with each yoga pose is very important. We each have very unique levels of strength, flexibility, and balance. Also, practicing non-judgement and compassion during yoga is essential. Don't compare yourself to anyone else in the room. "When we judge ourselves, we break our own hearts." It's true.
5) Women. Please honor the body during menstruation. You will get to know how well you can really "perform" during this time. Some women absolutely have to skip class (be careful not to use this as an excuse), others find that yoga eases the pain of cramps and opens the natural flow of the body. Be gentle during any pose or breathwork that churns or twists the lower belly. Difficulty balancing is common. Also, common sense tells us that any pose where the pelvis is upside-down (e.g. headstand) is not advisable during this time.
Class Make-up Policy. If you miss a class, you can make it up in another class. You may attend any class in the schedule that is suitable for your ability. If you are attending a class at the Minnesota Opera Studio, you will need the front door code.
We are more than happy to talk to you at any time about your yoga practice as it relates to all aspects of your life. Feel free to let us know what is working or not working for you - we can also set up a one-on-one private session. Lots of challenges can come up as we continue to practice and get to know our inner landscape. Yoga can be very transformational, so we invite you to remain open in body, mind, and spirit during your continued practice.
