Before undertaking any yoga program it is beneficial to think about what it is that you'd like to achieve. This will help you choose the right class and teacher for your requirements. Once you have this established, there are numerous things you can do to ensure you get the most out of your yoga class. You need to wear the right clothes, work at your own pace, prepare for each practice and observe several other recommendations.
-Selecting the right class for you-
Don't simply sign up to any yoga class, work out what you require and shop around until you find the closest match. To help ascertain what is right for you, write down the top 5 things you'd like to get out of yoga. It could be relaxation, improved flexibility, muscle tone, anger management, spirituality or a reduction in feelings of anxiety or depression.
Make sure that the class you have in mind will help you achieve these desires. The right class also needs to be at a convenient time and location for you. There's no point choosing one that you are unlikely to be able to attend regularly. In addition consider the atmosphere of the class. Would you like a tranquil atmosphere or would you prefer a class where you are free to talk and laugh? The class also needs to suit your experience level.
-Selecting the right teacher for you-
To excel you need to find a knowledgeable teacher or guru who you feel comfortable with. It can be a good idea to take a trail class before making a long term commitment. Are you comfortable with the teacher's yoga philosophy? Do you feel at ease asking them questions? What is their background? Are you comfortable with the way they offer personal feedback and give hands on help?
-Wear the right clothing-
The clothing you wear to a yoga practice should be comfortable and semi fitted. Choose something that allows you to move with ease, allows the teacher to clearly see your form and provides the necessary modesty. You don't want to be fussing with your clothes during a practice. Having to hold your top down or tripping over pant legs will not allow you to concentrate on the task at hand.
-Take the time to prepare yourself for practice-
The best benefits of yoga come about when you are able to relax and enjoy your practice. If possible select a time when you are able to allocate an extra 15 minutes beforehand to unwind before beginning. During this time ensure that you will be comfortable practicing in the area you have selected and ensure you have all your necessary props on hand. You want to make sure that you have adequate space around to comfortably perform postures. It is also a good idea to go to the bathroom prior to starting.
-Work at your own pace-
Yoga is not competitive, so don't worry about what the other participants are doing during a practice. Patience and persistence are considered virtues in yoga. So don't be discouraged and expect to achieve everything in one day. Focus only on yourself and set yourself reasonable goals. Also remember that each practice is different because energy levels fluctuate. Hormones, lifestyle and even the moon's cycle can affect energy levels, take each practice as it comes.
-Pay attention to your breathing-
Sometimes people get so caught up in achieving the right physical postures that they forget the importance of rhythmic, controlled breathing. Make breathing the number one priority. If you are having difficulty keeping your breathing smooth, ease off the posture. As you gain increased flexibility and strength, you will find that you can increase the stretch and still breathe evenly.
-Inform your teacher of any limitations-
If you have high blood pressure, back problems, are pregnant or suffer from any type of medical condition, inform the teacher prior to class. They may suggest modifications or ask you to skip certain postures. For example, if you have high blood pressure and push yourself to perform inverted poses you are most likely to end up feeling sick and dizzy.
-Observe the rules of food consumption-
Shortly after we eat, digestion places high demands on the body. It is therefore beneficial to wait two hours after consuming food before practicing yoga. Try to time your meals to coincide with your class.
Finally try not to undo all your hard work as soon as you step out of class. Drink lots of water and eat a nutritious well balanced diet. Also try to perform regular practice between classes. Performing 20 minutes of yoga every day is the most beneficial for optimum well being.