10 Things to Expect at your First Online Yoga Class
It's lockdown, a New Year & a Healthier You. Yoga is the perfect way towards discovering that healthier you but the studios & gyms are closed & it's way too cold to attempt doing yoga outside right now. Don't let that stop you, online yoga it is.
The sound of an "online" yoga class can be quite daunting at first but there are so many benefits to yoga at home especially as a beginner:
- You're in the comfort & safety of your own home
- The journey time to & from class is significantly reduced
- No need to feel embarrassed or conscious, there's no one else there.
So what are the 10 things to expect when you’ve bitten the bullet & booked your first online yoga class:
1. CONNECTING
You'll receive a link, whether that's via email or txt & this is your doorway to the online studio. So you just click on that and you'll be directed to your class, I personally hold my classes on zoom so you'll be directed to the "waiting room" or straight into the yoga studio. If you're completely new to the idea of zoom head HERE to learn more about it
Don't be afraid of being a Beginner
2. A SPACE OF YOUR OWN
Prior to class why not create an area in your home that is specifically for your yoga practice. Fingers crossed you can find somewhere quiet where you will be undisturbed (We all know that this is never guaranteed) Grab your mat, yoga props (You can be creative and use things from around the home or head to my SHOP to invest in some) Light candles, a blanket & treat yourself, put the heating on.
3. EASY VIEWING
Set your laptop/ iPad/ phone somewhere you will be able to view it easily. Sometimes having your mat set up parallel to the screen is the easiest way to follow like in the photo here, the teacher will also be able to see your alignment easier to offer tips. If you're super fancy you could always get your teacher on your TV.
4. SHHHH
You'll more than likely be put onto mute after you've had the opportunity to have a catch up. The teacher will probably check everyone in, advise on any props needed & make sure that the audio levels are good and you can hear everything clear. Being on mute means you can feel happy knowing no-one else can hear any moans & groans or the dog barking in the background.
5. FEELING UNSURE
Everyone else will be feeling the same. A little bit unsure, wondering whether this will be easy to follow, conscious of their home, making sure all the washing is away etc But once you get into the online studio you will quickly become used to your home studio & remember everyone else is just as unsure.
6. MUSIC
You might need music. So you could create a yoga playlist or your teacher might even send you a link to practise along with. I love to play music in my classes & I share my music with you throughout class.
7. SAFE SPACE
Be careful of what's around you. Don't knock anything over or try not to hurt yourself kicking walls, cupboards, doors etc. You only need a mats shaped space for yoga & walls are often really helpful for balances.
8. JUST RELAX
Savasana. The most important part of your practice, relaxing. To a beginner in a studio environment or online this part can be a moment of..."am I doing this right?" "should I still be here?" "oh she's sat up now" But be confident in the knowledge you're doing it right. Lying still on the floor & know you will be guided when to start moving.
Savasana is the easiest and most important yoga move because it's so simple. Lying there is meditative
9. WEEK AFTER WEEK
Make it a routine. Try not to let it become a one hit wonder, yoga takes time and patience. You'll probably already feel some benefit from one class but reversing a lifetime of habits is a long process but it will lead to a healthier you. A course can provide you with that commitment to practising yoga, your teacher will also get to know your body & where your restrictions are. You'll get to see the same friendly faces week after week & become a little community.
10. DON'T EXPECT PERFECTION
Finally you are at home, life is happening around you so expect to be interrupted. Your yoga practice will never be completely perfect & that applies to being in a yoga studio too. At home you'll slip around on carpet, you will hear the dog barking, the doorbell might go, the kids might join in & your partner might be walking around in the background but It's absolutely fine. If anything it gives you the opportunity to focus on your breath & time on the mat even more & find the fun in it all.
So I hope you're feeling a little less apprehensive about your first yoga class online & if you still have more questions to ask, reach out to your future yoga teacher, I'm sure they will be more than happy to help you & settle any remaining worries.
If you'd like to reach out to me personally I'd be more than happy to help.
If you're still searching for the ideal class for you why not look into my current Online 6 Week Beginners Yoga Course? You can learn more about it HERE
It's Yoga Practice not Yoga Perfect
