Signing up for your first vinyasayogaclass can be exciting and also a little intimidating.
Thats where we can help.
First, lets go over what vinyasa yoga is and where it comes from.
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In Sanskrit, vinyasa means to place in a special way, Parikh explains.
And the special way is through this linking.
With this style of yoga, you are dancing with your breath and movement, she says.
But in vinyasa, the format and flow can really vary between studios, teachers, and classes.
As for the origins of vinyasa?
Theyre really contested, says Parikh.
Yoga is about more than just physical poses.
Classical yogacalled raja yogaincludes eight limbs, or kinds of practice.
The other seven limbs, however, are equally essential to yoga.
Learn more about the origins and history of yogahere.
Not all vinyasa classes are beginner-friendly.
To find a class in the former category, look for the words slow flow, suggests Parikh.
What teacher would you recommend for new students?
Is it okay to ask questions during this class?
Will we be walking through the poses one by one to get a handle of what they are?
Does the teacher spend time in the poses themselves explaining what I should be feeling?
Finding the right fit with your instructor can enhance your experience.
When it comes to finding a good teacher, keep an eye out for certain credentials.
Folks trained in yoga therapy may also be well suited for beginners, Parikh adds.
It may take a few tries to find a teacher you click with.
Classes typically range from 45 to 60 minutes.
Theres no one set time period for a vinyasa class.
But in general, classes are close to an hour, says Parikh.
Youll flow through a variety of poses, some of which may be new to you.
Like we mentioned, theres no standard format for a vinyasa class.
Most classes will end with a resting pose like savasana (corpse pose), says Parikh.
The pace may feel more intense than other styles of yoga.
Comfortable, breathable clothing is best.
First things first: You probably dont need to buy a new outfit for vinyasa, says Briggs.
Chances are you already have clothing in your closet that will work just fine for class.
You’re welcome to try different things out and do what works for you, encourages Parikh.
check that that you’re able to move in many different shapes comfortably in the fabric, says Parikh.
You also want to pick garments that are both breathable and secure, she adds.
And see to it you might breathe well in your garments, too.
In terms of support, see to it your chest feels secure, especially if you have bigger boobs.
Practice a few poses at home in your outfit to confirm it offers the level of support you need.
Stopping to readjust your outfit as you transition between poses can really take you out of the moment.
When prepping for class, consider bringing a long-sleeve shirt in addition to whatever top youre planning to wear.
This additional layer can provide comfort during the final relaxation poses of class, says Burgos.
A few pieces of equipment might come into play.
You dont necessarily need equipment or props to practice vinyasa.
But having them can make the experience a lot better for manydifferent body types, says Parikh.
If youre taking vinyasa at a studio, call ahead and ask what equipment you need.
Not sure how to use a certain tool?
Get to class early and ask the teacher or studio manager for a quick tutorial.
Need a little more attention?
Modifications are definitely okay.
Dont feel like you have to do every pose in vinyasa exactly like the instructor or your classmates.
A good teacher will provide options for modifying poses to different ability levels.
Dont be afraid to ask questions.
Of course, you still want to be respectful in class and not disruptive to other students' experiences.
So if you find yourself puzzled the majority of the time, talk with the teacher privately after class.
You may want to hire the instructor for one-on-one help.
Listen to your body.
Its natural to want to keep pace with the rest of the class.
But it’s also important to pay attention to what feels goodand what doesn’t.
Dont compare yourself to the person next to you, says Briggs.
Instead, do what feels right for you and respect where youre at in your practice today.
Dont be intimidated by the environment, says Parikh.
