FAQs

What should I wear to class?

It is reccomended to wear lightweight and comfortable-fitting exercise clothes that you don't mind moving and sweating in.

As we will be doing some postures involving bending over, really loose clothing may fall over your head is keep that in mind, but you can always bring a extra top to layer up. 

A jumper and some socks are also good to bring to get warm and cozy when we enter deep relaxation at the end.

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In short, ladies usually wear leggings or shorts and a sports bra with a vest or crop top, and gentlemen are advised to wear shorts, with or without a vest/t-shirt. 

What do I need to bring?

My current location (Gym4all) provides workout mats that are free to use, but if you have your own yoga mat please do bring it along! As your practice develops it is nice to have your own mat to really connect with, and I can personally offer some great brand recommendations.

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If you have a regular practice and you use blocks, straps or bolsters, please do bring them along to assist you in your practice! Otherwise i'd recommend a small blanket or pillow to help elevate hips in seated postures.

How do I prepare for my first class?

Firstly, welcome to yoga! You are one yoga class away from a good mood.

It is recommended to arrive to class in good time, and for your first definitely 15 minutes or so early, to not only get comfortably set up and fill out a waiver but also so I can personally introduce myself and get to say hello to everyone before class!

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You should come to class on an empty stomach but not hungry. It is recommended that you do not eat anything heavy 2-3 hours before a class. Ensure you are well hydrated before class. Although you may drink small sips of water during class, the real hydration happens before and after. Herb teas, coconut water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices can all help you to achieve your daily hydration levels.

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Classes are usually an hour long, and incorporate breath work (pranayama) and a series of postures (asana), linked together to form a flow (Vinyasa). We usually begin with grounding and centering (meditation), and close out with complete relaxation (Shavasana). Each and every pose is simply an invitation, so listen to your body and take what you need in that moment. Remember, yoga does not necessarily have an end goal, nor is it ever perfect... thats why its called a practice.  

What if I'm not flexible?

You do not need to be flexible to practice yoga; increased flexibility will come in time as you practice. Most of us spend our day sitting down at work or engaging in repetitive motion that shortens muscles. Practicing yoga enables you to lengthen your muscles and release built up toxins and tension.

Do men do Yoga? Is Yoga for men?

The simple answer is ‘Yes’. Traditionally the majority of Yogis were men being taught one to one or in very small groups by a male teacher. While there were female teachers and female Yoginis, they were relatively few.

It is only since the renaissance of Yoga in the West and East in the last 100 years that men have become the minority in classes.

However, around the globe there are millions of men enjoying, and being surprised by, the positive effects of Yoga for them. Not only do men feel better from these benefits but the effects can reach wider with improvements in concentration, relationships, and in the work place.

What if I am pregnant?

Yoga can be extremely beneficial in terms of helping you to relax, learn breathing techniques and keep fit and healthy while pregnant. However, it is not recommended that you practise Yoga during the first 3 months of your pregnancy.  So much is happening to your body during this time it's important to give your body the time it needs to create a new life. After 3 months, and you are fit and healthy with no complications it is recommended that you attend a specific Pre-Natal Yoga class. 

For more information on practicing Yoga while pregnant please contact me directly, as although none are currently scheduled at my Basildon location, I do offer and I am trained in teaching both Pre and Post Natal yoga classes.

What if I have had an injury or surgery, or if I am suffering from a pre-existing condition?

Please let me know if you have a specific medical condition or injury before class. Yoga can support the healing process safely but the teacher always needs to know to be able to help you. Do use your common sense, don’t push too hard initially and don’t be afraid to sit down and rest whenever you need to – after all, you know your body better than anyone else and you should listen to it.

Can I practise Yoga while I am on my cycle (have my period)?

There is much discussion in the Yoga community about whether to practise on your cycle or to rest, and whether to do inversion postures (when your legs and hips are higher than your abdomen). Opinions range from not practising at all during your whole cycle (e.g. for a full 5 days) to practising throughout the cycle. Some opinions are backed up by medical and health reasons, some by energetic reasons. A sensible middle ground may be to rest on your peak cycle days when your body is involved in other processes and return when your energy is once more at full potential. While we have not found any scientific data to say you should not practice at this time, ultimately the decision is yours and you should use common sense and listen to what your body needs at this time.