FAQ and Beginner Guide

FAQ

I am new to yoga, where should I start?
See our beginner guide on this page. (Below the FAQ if you are on a mobile device)

What if I am not flexible? Flexibility is not what makes you good at yoga. Showing up for yourself and learning to listen to your body is where yoga begins. Always feel free to ask your instructor questions.

How often should I attend yoga classes? My recommendation is a minimum of two so that you are able to notice your progress. But, even one a week will help your body and mind. Many students take up to 5 a week. You can take yoga every day IF you mix in restorative styles of yoga such as Yin and restorative so that your body is able to recover.

What types of yoga do you have? Please see our About page to read the description of the classes offered at Imago Dei Yoga.

What yoga mat should I get? Short answer—something sturdy with a good grip. Want more details? Click this link for an in-depth answer.

Do you have yoga mats I can borrow? We have yoga mats you can borrow for free while you are in class.

What do I need to bring with me to my yoga session? Bring a water bottle and yoga mat (If you have one).

What should I wear? You will want comfortable flexible clothing so that you are able to stretch, rest your legs up the wall, or twist.

Can I bring my child? Please be mindful that our classes are structured for adults. Middle school age and older that are able to stay focused during an hour long yoga class are welcome as long as the guardian is also taking the same class with the minor. Please contact natalie@imagodieyoga.com before bringing children under the age of 13 years to a yoga class.

Beginner’s Guide

Best classes for beginners

Private Classes—Private classes are customized to your specific needs. Your first private classes is only $35 and includes an assessment as well as an introductory lesson. Email natalie@imagodeiyoga.com to ask about private classes.

Yin—Easy and safe for getting a really good stretch. Because of there slow meditative pace, these classes are also good to help rest the body.

Gentle (Flow and Hatha)—Much more movement than Yin, but it is still a slower paced class that focuses mostly on stretching the body. May have a little bit of muscle work, but only lightly.

Hatha—a challenging class safe for beginners as it moves slowly from pose to pose. You may work up a sweat or have sore muscles after.

Hatha/Vinyasa (fusion class)—a little faster paced than Hatha, but still safe for students who already have some semi regular physical activity in their routine.

All levels are welcome in all of our classes. Every teacher is well trained and can assist you wherever you are at in your yoga journey.

Additional Resources for Beginners/New to the Studio

Sign up for classes Here

Chose your package Here (New Student Special is recommended if you are new to the studio)

Yoga mat recommendations here

Advice from Your Yoga Teacher

Stay Hydrated! Water bottles are welcome in the studio

No socks on unless it is a yin or restorative class or the socks have grips on them. You do not want to slip on the yoga mat.

While one class a week is better than none, two classes will help you progress much easier. You can take yoga everyday so long as you mix in Yin and restorative classes on some of those days so that your body can recover.

Leave your cell phone off and in the cubby with your shoes. Part of the beauty of yoga is getting to leave the outer world behind for an hour and be present with yourself.

Your first class may feel a little awkward while you are doing it, but you will feel great after. The awkwardness is from moving your body in ways it is not used to. Practice will make it feel natural.

When in doubt, it is okay to pause or come out of a pose slowly. A good yogi respects their body and will pause or stop altogether if something feels off—every day is different, so you will see even the most seasoned yogi pause or take a break if they need. When coming out of a pose, do so very slowly to prevent injury or dizziness.

Stay for the savasana! Savasana is the resting posture at the end of every class and is considered the most important pose. In this resting posture, the entire yoga practice integrates into the body, and the mind also gets to practice being at ease (the mind practices along with the body for gradual improvement in health).