These suggestions for your visit will help you feel comfortable when entering the studio setting. They are based on creating a conscious experience and in some cases yogic tradition.
Practice May Be Strenuous
Hatha Yoga (forceful yoga) like all forms of yoga, is considered a practice that develops over time. Pay attention to your fatigue level and nutrition before you arrive.
What to Bring
Although there are a limited number of mats available, many people chose to bring their own mat, a hand towel and a bottle of water for after practice.
Arrive On Time
Please try to arrive on time to set up your practice area. If you do arrive as the teacher is setting the intention, kindly wait until this is finished and the teacher invites you to take a place.
Remove Your Shoes Before Entering the Studio
Not only is this practical for keeping the studio floors clean for bare feet, in the yogic tradition taking your shoes off before entering a room where any practices are offered is rich in history and tradition.
Turn Off Your Cell Phone
Make a habit of silencing your phone as soon as you get to the yoga studio. This is time to focus on you and your practice.
Chanting Om
Classes are opened and/or closed by the students and teachers chanting "Om." Coming from ancient yoga tradition, it is both a sound and a symbol rich in meaning and depth. Om is pronounced as 4 syllables, Ah-Oo-Um-Silence. You are free to chant or just listen.
Yoga Props
Straps, blocks, blankets and bolsters are aids for exploring poses. Their use does not reflect a level of practice but a simple requirement for space.
Savasana
Or "corpse pose" is a final relaxation pose and is an important part of your practice. It is a time not only of rest, but also a time when your nervous system has a chance to integrate what it has learned. If you must leave class early, tell the teacher in advance and take a short Savasana before you go.
Namaste
Practice is often ended by the teacher saying "Namaste." A sign of respect acknowledging that we are all connected, Namaste means "the divine in me, sees and honors the divine in you." The students may return the teacher's sentiment by responding "Namaste."
