August 15 is #NationalRelaxationDay and what better way to celebrate than by taking a rejuvenating yoga class? Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice, started in India, that uses techniques like deep breathing and long stretching sequences to achieve inner peace. Never taken a class before or feel a little rusty since your last one? Here’s everything you need to know.
Before You Go
Dress Properly. For the types of long and exaggerated poses that are performed in yoga, fitted exercise clothing is best. To get the most out of your movement, you’ll want to wear fabric that is breathable and allows you to deepen your stretches. That also makes it easier for the instructor to see your body alignment and help you correct any poses you may be having trouble with.
Bring Water and a Mat. Although yoga isn’t like your high intensity Total Body Conditioning, you’ll still be sweating. Bring a bottle of water to keep your body hydrated and feeling replenished. A yoga mat, otherwise known as a sticky mat, is recommended as it can make stretching more comfortable while supporting your hands, feet and knees.
When You Arrive
Put Your Belongings Away. You can either grab a locker or bring your stuff into the classroom to place out of the way. Remember to turn off electronics. Before you walk into the studio, leave your worries of the day outside and step into zen.
Introduce Yourself to the Instructor. Locate your instructor and introduce yourself. Let him or her know it’s your first yoga class so that they can help you with proper body alignment and yoga best practices. It is important to mention any previous injuries you’ve had because some positions may aggravate troublesome places on the body. Try to place yourself off to the side, so that it’s easier for the instructor to help you without disrupting anyone else during class.
Clear Your Mind. To get the most out of yoga, challenge yourself to fully relax and leave any stress behind. By releasing that tension, you relax more into your poses and reap the true benefits of deep stretching. Most yoga classes end with Savasana, or Corpse Pose. This is the part of the class where lights are dimmed and the focus is on long, deep breaths. To close out the class, the instructor will end by bowing and saying “Namaste,” which means “I bow to the divine in you.” The class receives, then returns the bow.
Sign Up for a Yoga Class at O2 Fitness
Ready to get started? Sign up for a free trial and test out any or our yoga classes at no cost to you. For your first time, we recommend a few specific classes, which are lower intensity:
Our instructors are happy to help you throughout the class as you figure out how to connect your breath with different poses and postures. After one visit, you’ll feel the rewarding effects of deep breathing, stretching and body awareness. Join us and celebrate this #NationalRelaxationDay!
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