by Tanu Bhandari

Created on: February 03, 2009

Yoga is a science which needs to be learned by a certified guru. In digital age lots of information about yoga, articles and videos are freely available on internet. A novice to yoga, should definitely enroll in authentic yoga class; registering for online course is not recommended.

The physical presence of teacher is important while learning basic yogasanas and breathing exercises which require concentration and perfection. Once comfortable, VCDs, DVDs, audio cassettes and books on yoga certainly prove helpful for further learning and practicing.Keep few points in mind to make the most out of your yoga class.

1.Follow the instructor
This is the golden rule for any classroom learning curriculum. Follow the teacher's instruction religiously to the minutest detail and you are bound to succeed. Yoga is an art, totally your comprehension of different poses, time and effort devoted by you and the perfection in doing.

2.Concentrate

Yoga requires dedication and devotion. It is all about synchronizing mind, body and soul. Concentrate on the poses and postures. Don't be concerned about peers or get distracted by happenings outside the four walls of the class.

3. Be careful

Do the asanas slowly and carefully. Don't rush through. The stretching and balancing act of limbs is initially tough for the stiff body. Gradually muscles and joints become supple while doing simple asanas and give agility to perform more complex postures later.

4.Do not stress

The basic rule of yoga is never doing anything by force, under stress. If it is uncomfortable don't do it. Relax, practice slowly, body tends to become flexible after sufficient practice.

5.Breathe from nose

Always breathe from nose never from mouth. Remember mouth is for eating and nostrils are for breathing. Follow the instructor attentively, for inhaling and exhaling time while doing a particular asana. Yoga has therapeutic effect, only when asanas together with breathing are done correctly.

6.Yoga outfit and accessories

*Wear comfortable loose clothing to a yoga class, preferably made of cotton fabric. Clothes should not obstruct you from performing asanas.

*Use a comfortable yoga mat, one to two inch think, which provides good cushioning for your elbows and knees. Yoga mat should also have good traction to avoid slipping while stretching.

*Carry a small pouch to yoga class. Remove wrist watch, spectacles or any flashy jewelry and keep safely inside the pouch. It avoids distraction during yoga session.

7.Disclose your illness

If you are suffering from any kind of illness discuss with the instructor and doctor prior to starting yoga. It may help you as there are certain asanas to cure specific ailments.

8.Keep stomach empty

Eat simple digestible food like a fruit, green salad, fat free yogurt or vegetable soup at least two hours prior to yoga class.

9. Avoid addiction

Don't attend a yoga class under the influence of alcohol or abusive drugs. The mind should be alert while doing yoga.

Last but not the least whatever you have learned in class keep it in practice. Yoga requires discipline and regularity. It helps in relaxing and stress relieving; strengthening body and mind. Yogasanas (poses) tones internal muscles, increase blood supply to all vital organs and rejuvenate body as a whole, bringing about total wellness and happiness.

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