Yoga 101Have you been thinking of taking an introductory yoga class, but are worried about what to expect?
Let Mark Blanchard put your mind at ease. Blanchard has been practicing yoga for over 20 years, has been an instructor for five years and currently teaches at his own studio, Mark Blanchard's Power Yoga (www.markblanchardspoweryoga.com). He has studied with many of the renowned masters of the discipline and has made several yoga videos. Here he offers a quick guide for those looking forward to taking their first yoga class.
- An open mind and flexible clothes. The three most important things to bring to your first yoga class are an open mind, an open heart and appropriate clothes. Wear the minimum that modesty allows, and make sure your outfit allows maximum flexibility. A pair of shorts or baggy pants will work well, and no shoes or socks are needed.
- A towel and a mat. You'll probably be doing a lot of sweating, so a towel is mandatory. Also, a portable yoga mat will provide some cushioning and protection from hard floors. Most yoga studios provide mats, if you don't have one.
- Hydrate before class. Like with any form of exercise, you'll want to be well hydrated when doing yoga. But according to Blanchard, the yoga will make your body want to let fluids out, so it's best to drink water before, not during, a session.
- Eat two hours prior. It's necessary to have enough food in your system, but eating directly before a yoga session might cause sickness. Try to eat between two and two and a half hours before class begins.
- Proper temperature. Blanchard says that the yoga room should be around 70 or 75 degrees, no hotter or cooler.
With a pleasant environment, proper attire, and a positive attitude, you'll be all set to enter the world of Yoga and have fun!
For more information on the art of yoga, check out the following organizations and websites:
American Yoga Association
P.O. Box 19986
Sarasota, FL 34276
941-927-4977, www.americanyogaassociation.org
The Yoga Alliance
120 S. Third Avenue West
Reading, PA 19611
877-964-2255, www.yogaalliance.org
Yoga Research and Education Center
2400A County Center Drive Santa Rosa, CA 95403
707-566-9000, www.yrec.org
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