Basic
information for yoga class
Clothing:
Clothing needs to be loose and comfortable, such as leggings, track suit bottom, T shirts and sweatshirt - basically nothing tight and restricting, such as waistbands. Layers are useful for adding and subtracting according to what we are doing.
Equipment:
It is best to have a proper (sticky) mat to work on as they provide a safe non-slip surface. Blocks are very useful and so are belts (an old tie suffices). A small towel can be use full for padding and something warm (light blanket) to cover with during periods of relaxation . You will soon discover what works for you.
Nature of practice:
Yoga is totally non-competitive do not set goals by competing with yourself ! Work with your body and mind as they are at that moment in time, we all have good and bad days. Work safely and be comfortable.
Hand to foot pose (padahastasana)
Some 'precautions' for yoga practice include:
Being aware of any injuries,effects of surgery,and generally not making anything worse!
High blood pressure-the head must not move lower than the heart,
Low blood pressure-care when changing level i.e. from floor to standing,
Joints-never over extend especially necks and knees, work to your limits,
Inform your yoga teacher of any physical problems before you start the session,
Be comfortable, allow your body to digest a meal before your practice (3hours after a meal, 90 minutes after a snack),
It's your yoga, be happy and make the session a pleasure and not a task (if doesn't feel right don't do it).
Some tips & links
Yoga mats
Seem to vary in price from £4.99- £20 the cheaper of two I found in Wilkinson, keep a lookout in your local supermarket, there are also some box kits (mat, blocks,belt and video) that are a good price and you can order a mat from many of the yoga sites on line.
Clothing
As stated loose, most sport shops do activity wear with material that conducts sweat away from the body, so do Marks and Spencer's. Cotton is good, and most yoga sites do a range of clothing for yoga. Remember wear whatever makes you happy and comfortable.
Yoga links
And in the spirit that satire is alive and well, try