Students

New Student Introduction to The Ashram

Before and after class:

• Please arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes before class.  There are no late arrivals or early dismissals.
• Make sure to be hydrated prior to coming to class; you should drink at least one liter of water during the day.
• Do not eat two hours prior to coming to class.
• If you wish to shower after class, there are showers in each changing room.  Please keep showers quick as there are other students in line.
• If you forget your belongings at the studio (keeping in mind that we are not responsible for your items) we do have a lost and found; just inquire at the front desk.

What to bring and wear:

• Bring a mat, towel, and water bottle to practice yoga. If you do not have these items they are available for rent or purchase at the studio. 
• If you rent a mat, after class, use the spray and cloth (available in the yoga room) to clean the mat; also roll it up and return it to the front desk.
• If you rent a towel, place the used towel in the bin.
• The ideal yoga clothing for women are well fitted shorts or pants and a well fitted top either short sleeved or sleeveless; for men is well fitted swimming trunks.  Remember that the room is heated, well fitted attire is recommended so you can see and do your poses more easily and for your comfort during backward and forward bends.
• Remove your shoes prior to entering the yoga room.
• If you have injuries or a medical condition, inform the yoga instructor since he/she might recommend modifications for your poses.

Your practice:

• The yoga room is heated from 90 to 105 degrees. This is done to relax your muscles and other benefits.
• There are specific times when you should drink water during your practice (it is for your benefit to drink only during times); the instructor will advise you when to drink.
• If during your practice you feel lightheaded, nauseous or tired, please lie down on your mat.   Do not leave the room as it will disturb your fellow yogis' focus.  This also allows the instructor can keep an eye on you to ensure that you are okay.
• The yoga room is a place for you to also improve the mind and spirit so always keep silent and focus on your own practice during the class.  Sometimes it is helpful to remember that yoga is a non-competitive exercise.
• The yoga "asanas" (or poses) encompass not only movement of the body, but also proper breathing technique (in/out the nose unless notified and inhaling/exhaling at certain movements), and proper "drisht" (gazing point). The best way to understand and improve your practice is to follow exactly what the instructor describes during the class.
• It is also very important to follow the instructor's direction to avoid injuries.
• Be patient and kind with yourself; you are, with every practice, building up your strength, flexibility and balance.
• Every day you practice yoga is different. You might be able to do a pose one day but the next day your body might reject that same pose; accept your body's limitation each day.
• Yoga is about quality, not quantity. Make 100% effort on all poses but again, pay attention to your body's needs.
• And finally, do not have expectations from your first time practicing yoga; come with a calm, positive and patient mindset. If your body is sore the following day the best thing to do is to come back to yoga as soon as possible (ideally the very next day) and as you start a consistent practice you will notice your body thanking you in several ways and you will be super-energized to be even more productive in your life!