What to expect in a hatha yoga class


Yoga is quite different from anything you have learned before. Do not compete with or compare yourself with anyone else or yourself. We are all unique and can do different things.

“In yoga there is no competition only acceptance.”

To begin with there will be a short period of relaxation or centering.

Then you will do some warm up exercises to begin to warm up the muscles and begin to work the joints.

Then you will work towards one particular posture or several different yoga postures depending on the format of the class. You should concentrate whilst performing postures otherwise they just become gymnastics. Go into the position slowly and gently. While in the postures you can also reflect on the effect the work is having on you.

Counterpose movements will follow the postures to ease the body, which will either be less demanding postures or gentle stretches.

Relaxation will be included during class between postures, either lying on your back, lying on your front, standing or in pose of a child. Use these times to observe and reflect on any changes you may notice within yourself.

Also included in class will be work with the breath. We can all breathe but yoga teaches us to breathe more efficiently. Breathing is an essential aspect of yoga practice and movement is always accompanied with regulated breathing.

There will possibly also be pranayama (breathing practices).

This will be followed by a period of relaxation. This is an important part of yoga practice as it allows the body and mind to rest.

Relaxation is a beneficial process, which is said to:

· Calm the nervous system

· Release tension

· Still the mind.

· Encourage natural healing

· Energise the body

· Reduce worry and fatigue

Meditation may also be included in the class.

Listen to your body and work within your own comfortable limits. Do not force, stress or strain any part of your body. Remember if you experience any pain stop immediately.

As a general rule when practicing yoga, you should inhale as the body is bending backwards or upwards and exhale as the body is bending forwards, downwards or twisting.

If in doubt, keep breathing, don’t hold your breath, breathe normally.
The most important thing is to keep breathing.

Breathing is done in and out through the nose at all times unless asked to do so otherwise.

Remember to work in your own time, do not worry if you haven’t finished working when others have and don’t worry if you are first to finish.

If you are not happy about doing a posture inform your teacher, who can then modify the work where possible.

I am only a guide so if you are asked to hold a posture for a certain number of breaths or asked to do the posture a set number of times, it does not mean you have to do this, again listen to your body and do what is right for you. Rest if you need to.

During practice it is important to note that whatever you are able to do today will differ from to what you could achieve yesterday. It will change from one week to another also hour to hour. So go with the flow relax and let things happen.

Yoga can also bring about physical, mental and emotional changes so be aware that this can happen, it is normal.

Yoga cannot be forced, it is not a quick fix, the journey is more important than the destination, so give it the right conditions for growth.
Be gentle with yourself, attend class regularly, do some practice at home, read some books and let it blossom and unfold.

If you need to ask any questions please feel you can do this at any time.




The most important thing to do when you come to your yoga class is:



Enjoy yourself
Relax, Breathe and Be gentle