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Yoga is a great way to begin or accent an exercise routine. Since its practitioners focus on both body and mind, joining a yoga class is not only likely to increase your strength, broaden your flexibility and improve your posture - it also tends to teach discipline, coupled with a sense of well-being, creating an attitude conducive to healthiness.

This can all be quite enticing to a beginner, but then, yoga asana (yoga posing) is from a non-Western culture, and can seem quite alien. How can a newbie approach her first yoga class in a way that helps her get the most out of it?

Choosing a Class

Don't ever be afraid to ask questions. You'll find more than one kind of yoga class at a studio - some take place in hot conditions, some are fast-paced, some are slow and meditative, and some are for beginners. You want to make sure you choose what suits your goals - are you looking for a workout that's more physical, or more mental?

Speak with the representative who is helping you register for the class, ask for definitions of any words you don't understand (yoga language can be specialized), and explain what experience, if any, you're coming into this with. If you've never taken a yoga class before, say so. The representative should be able to help you choose a suitable class. If not, find a way to get in contact with your potential teacher - possibly by arranging a phone call.

Getting Ready

Class should be attended on a near-empty stomach: yoga is, after all, a workout, and you don't want to make yourself sick. If you're hungry, a serving of fruit or raw vegetables should do the trick, filling you up enough to survive until the end of class, without weighing you down or stealing your energy for digestion. As for drinking - drink water before and after class, but not during.

Your clothing should be somewhat loose fitting, but unlikely to fall off or get in your way while you move. Some yoga asana fans like tight leggings and exercise gear. It's up to you what you find comfortable, but it doesn't need to be anything special. Especially for a beginner, who isn't even sure if she'll remain interested, a medium-sized t-shirt and jogging pants are just fine. Further, be prepared to bare your feet, and wear as few pieces of jewelry as possible.

The Social Aspect

If you're worried you might back out of the classes, or get too lazy to go, try to find a friend to sign up with you. If you can't find one, you can always make friends in the class - but always remember to keep respect your

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