Before I went to my first yoga class, (at the local gym), I wanted to peek inside to get an idea of what to expect. What should I wear, what props and gear should I bring to class, would I be able to keep up with everyone?… Start S L O W, and do not burn a hole in your wallet.
No fancy yoga clothes are required. You should be comfortable for sure, and definitely consider not wearing anything too baggy or loose on top or bottom. An oversized t-shirt may fall down towards your toes in a “Forward Fold”, giving everyone around you an unexpected treat. No designer brands are needed, but a good fit is ideal.
If you have not moved your body in quite a awhile, you may opt to bring yoga props with you, as they will help get your body into a pose/posture with a bit more ease and/or stability. In a new world or “virtual classes”, students now keep yoga props available at home, or purchase and bring with them to class. Consider this… If you have tight hips, or issues with your back, a yoga blanket, or large beach towel may help when you sit on the floor, as it lifts your hips and provides space for a slight “pelvic tilt” forward. (sitting on the very edge of the blanket/towel). If your hamstrings tend to be super tight, (whose aren’t?), consider a block, or two, as it will give you height when you “forward fold”, towards your toes, and when you get into “triangle pose”, as you press your bottom hand into it, which also helps with stability. A yoga strap will help you with “binds” and connecting body parts closer to one another, as in a supine hamstring lengthening. If this prop is on your list to purchase, you can also use a long belt, long dog leash, or even a bathrobe tie in the interim.
The one prop to really invest in, should you plan on practicing for longer than a month, is a GOOD yoga mat. Your yoga mat will support throughout your practice, when seated, standing, and on your back, or stomach. Good support and purposeful movement, will minimize your chances of injury, and keep you coming back to class. Those big, thick, foamy mats may look good, but do not provide proper support, will start to breakdown with long term use, and may cause injury as they tend to make your hands and feet slip. (You do not want to worry about needless movement when you are working on your Downward Dog, trying to breathe “deeply”.) Most yogis will recommend Jade Yoga mats. (Think- slight bounce and “squishyness” under the feet and hands.)
Or a Manduka Yoga mat. (Think – more firmness under the feet and hands)
Its all a personal choice with your gear, props and mat, but you should not have to break the bank, or risk injury – ever.
Be well Yogis! xo #movethebodytoquietthemind #yoga #yogapractice #wellness #yogamats #yogagear
IG:Divagirlyoga