Know before you go
New to Yoga Class?
I understand that coming to a new class or maybe even trying yoga for the first time can be daunting but it needn’t be! Here’s everything you need to know before you join me in class - and for any other questions please feel free to drop me an email alex@awakealexyoga.co.uk or via the contact page.
What to wear
You want to feel comfortable in class, so wear something with stretch and flexibility that’s going to allow you to move without restriction. You don’t necessarily need a whole new outfit - think what you would wear to the gym or for a run. Its great to come with an extra layer to put on at the end of class as we cool down during our final relaxation - your favourite jumper of cardigan will do just fine.
It’s also worth wearing a tight fit top rather than something very loose, so that it doesn’t end up around your head when you are in downward dog!
What to bring
Please bring a yoga mat with you if you can. As I teach at different locations I have a limited number of mats which I can bring to class and offer for use; and I find that most people like to have their own mat to use in class. You can get some great value mats from brands such as Gaiam and Yoga Matters, but if you want to try a class first just let me know in advance so I have enough with me!
You may also want to bring water with you, especially when its warmer weather.
Class Etiquette
Arrive early - please aim to arrive at class 5 - 10 mins before we start. This is so that I can book you in, answer any questions and you can find a spot for your mat where you feel comfortable.
Take off your shoes and socks and leave these with any bags either outside the room or at the back of the room, out of the way.
Yoga is a personal practice, which means you don’t need to worry about what anyone else is doing or what the person next to you is doing! It’s completely non-competitive and a chance to just focus on yourself.
Don't leave in the middle of final relaxation! My yoga classes will always end with Corpse pose, also called Savasana (pronounced sha-VASS-ahnah) and a final relaxation. In order not to disturb your fellow students, if you do have to leave early please do so before Savasana.
Injuries
Please let me know if you have any injuries, and keep me posted as and when things change or new injuries happen. The most important thing is to be mindful of your body and only do what you can / feel comfortable with. I can discuss any specific modifications with you depending on the injury.
Pregnancy
Please note that it is recommended that even if you have already been practising yoga you don't practice in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Although I can provide general modifications for pregnancy, I don’t offer pregnancy yoga classes but would highly recommend the following local teachers who offer group pregnancy classes:
Lucy Pocock - Reigate Dance Studio
Namaste & Om
Yoga is an ancient Indian practice handed down through generations. I like to honour the origins and full meaning of Yoga in my classes and will often incorporate Sanskrit words (such as Savasana, see above!) for the poses and like to end classes with an ‘Om’. You most definitely don’t have to join in, feel free just to listen. When I bow my head at the end and say "Namaste" (pronounced nah-mas-TAY) you’ll notice the class says it back as well, but you don’t have to! This Sanskrit word means "I honour you" and is normally said at the end of class as a lovely final farewell.
