yoga preps & tips.

arrival 10-15 mins earlier - gets you into the proper frame of mind & warm up.
chronic lateness - disrespect to both teacher & fellow students.
no need for comparison - individuality extends to different levels of flexibility.
listen to your body - stretching is good. pain is not. yoga does not "go for the burn."
relaxed mind & body - bring focus back to yoga gently when distracted.
perseverence - initial discomforts will eventually disappear.


consistency is key - individual progress & quality of the class is enhanced by regular
attendance.
cumulative effects - builds up concentration, increases flexibility, strengthens
willpower.


empty tummy - if very hungry, have fruit / yoghurt.
comfortable clothing - something that keeps you warm. overly loose gets in your way.
bare feet - avoid slipping.
always in firm contact with ground. toes spread out.
pay attention to your body - check alignment head to toe for balance & stability.
body weight - evenly distributed.
chest & tummy - lifted.
shoulders - rolled back & down.
slow movements - move into poses slowly to avoid injury and to feel the specific
muscles working.
no bouncing - creates automatic resistance and risks injury.


newbies - hamstring & calves / hips, shoulders & lower back may be sore.
severe muscle/joint stiffness means you overdone it. gone past your max.
give your body a chance to rest & recover.
if its not that bad, light stretching can still be done.

breathing - in through nostrils. out through mouth.
no rush. take time to focus on your rhythm,
keep breath slow & smooth.
inhalation & exhalation should flow consistently not forcefully & loud.

menstruation - in discomfort, do in moderation. especially the forward bends.