What To Expect At Your First Class

So you've taken to first step to trying yoga - AMAZING! If you're picturing a room full of people folding effortlessly into pretzels, let me put your mind at ease: that's not what most classes looks like, and it's certainly not what's expected of you.

You don't need to be flexible!

There’s a potential of me one day tattooing this on my forehead!! You come to yoga to become more flexible. If you’re already a super strong, Bendy Wendy, you’re likely not going to start coming in the first place.

Flexibility is something yoga builds over time - it's not a requirement to walk in the door. We move slowly, with plenty of options, and you're always welcome to pause if your body feels like something is too much.

“Yoga isn't about touching your toes. It's about what you learn on the way down.”

What to bring:

Wear something comfortable you can move in*, bring a bottle of water, and arrive five minutes early so you can settle. Mats are usually available if you don't have your own (this varies on venue, so I’d recommend checking). That's genuinely all you need. If a class requires extra props, they normally provide them.
*Yoga leggings are fine, but if you don’t feel at ease wearing them…don’t! The most important thing is wearing something that isn’t fussy and won’t keep getting in your way during practice. Layers are also ideal so you’re always comfortable whether in movement or stillness.

What to expect:

Every class and teacher is different. Even if you stick to one style, like a "Vinyasa" flow, the experience changes depending on who is teaching. However, the general structure stays the same: you begin with quiet stillness to centre your breath, followed by the physical practice of yoga asana (postures). You might move swiftly through many poses, or take your time feeling into just a few. Classes then finish with most peoples favourite part: Savasana (Corpse Pose). You find a comfortable position on your back, close your eyes, and enjoy a few gorgeous minutes of intentionally doing nothing.

🦋 In a FYF class, there are ALWAYS options to explore a version of your practice that works for you that day. I am incredibly passionate about creating a space where everyone feels supported and comfortable. This might mean:

• giving different versions of poses (some softer, some more intense)
• using different ways to cue (e.g. through visual demonstrations, physical touch or verbal imagery)
• inviting you to ultimately take what you need

Extra ‘etiquette’:

Not all studios enforce these rules, but most appreciate when you respect them: Leave your shoes and devices at the door. Most spaces have a designated area for you to leave shoes and bags, ensuring the studio itself is free from clutter. It’s also the perfect excuse to put your phone on silent and shut off the outside world.

Final note:

It’s tempting to look around the room and wonder why the person next to you seemingly glides through poses like a gazelle, while you feel like a you’ve stepped onto a wobble board. Remember that yoga is a personal practice. Absolutely nobody is judging how your poses look, mostly because they are far too busy concentrating on not falling over themselves!